Triad’s football team made some mistakes Friday against visiting Riverside, but when it mattered most the Cardinals were able to pull out a 32-25 win in overtime.

“It was an exciting game to watch,” said Triad head coach Payton Printz. “I’m very proud of the effort our guys gave. Our guys really fought back after getting down and grew up a lot.

“We had a freshman quarterback who struggled at times with his decisions. But in overtime he managed to find his last receiving option and got the score for us. It was impressive to see.”

The game was tied 25-25 at the end of regulation. Triad’s offense took the field first in overtime and scored on a touchdown strike from freshman Matt Freville to Nate Marks.

During Riverside’s possession in overtime, the Pirates fumbled and the Cardinals were able to recover to end the game.

“Nate Marks made a great catch for us,” said Printz. “Kaleb Deam had a great game and Addison Ford ran like a horse for us.”

For Riverside, Whitaker led the way with 149 yards rushing and his two touchdowns and Coulson had 56 yards and the two scores.

Defensively, Brian Hayman had six tackles and an interception to lead Riverside.

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