Dolphins Splash Past Rays in Rain

The rainy weather was perfect for Dolphins and Manta Rays on Friday night, October 16, at Winterberry Field. But in the end, Marco Island Academy’s Rays were no match for Marathon’s Dolphins, as the visiting team poured it on in a 42-12 win that was actually more competitive than the score indicates.

Indeed, the Rays battled to the bitter end, with Gavin Swift scoring on a touchdown pass from Carter Good as the running clock was running out.

“Despite the loss tonight,” said Rich Costante, Rays coach, “our team played with a lot of heart from start to finish. Marathon’s well-executed offense gave us trouble all night.”

The Rays lost a key player early when Hutch Hamilton suffered an injury in the first quarter. Other Rays players turned in solid performances despite the lopsided score.

“Zac Massie played a great game tonight,” Costante said. “He’s stepped up these last few weeks and has helped carry this team through a tough stretch.”

With a small roster, many of the Rays are counted on to play on both sides of the ball.

Massie ran for 28 yards and had two catches for 49 yards. Both catches were highlight film-worthy. Massie also came through with nine tackles. Good and Swift were both productive returning from injuries. Good found Swift for two touchdowns, finishing 9-18 for 146 yards. Swift had four catches for 95 yards and was a force defensively.

Anthony Abin was also a productive two-way performer, rushing for 126 yards and making eight tackles. Gavin Montgomery rushed for 13 yards and made five tackles.

The Rays (2-6) host Florida Christian (7-2) on Saturday, October 24. Marathon (2-6) travels to BridgePrep Village Green.