On Saturday, Oct. 4 at home, Tamalpais lost 34-13 in the homecoming game against American Canyon’s prominent run game. Tam came into the game struggling with a 1-4 record, but the Hawks were coming off their first win of the season vs Justin Siena the week prior. On the other hand American Canyon was 3-1 with their only loss was to 5-0 St. Vincent.
On the first offensive play of the game junior quarterback Henry Tuttle found senior Timo Ural for a 27 yard gain for the hawks, but the drive ended in an interception by American Canyon. When American Canyon’s offense stepped on the field, they scored a quick passing touchdown within a couple of plays of getting the ball. They employed their physical brand of football and scored a two point conversion on the ground. American Canyon then continued their bold strategy calling an onside kick, which Tam recovered. American Canyon continued their aggressive play calling all game, always going for a two point conversion and trying an onside kick every kickoff. After another touchdown by the Wolves, Tam showed promise with a commanding drive leading in a 9-yard touchdown pass to senior Timo Ural making the score 14-7. The Wolves responded with a six minute 80 yard commanding drive with almost every play being a run, smothering the momentum that Hawks had on their side. The score was 20-7 going into half. The second half was similar to the first with American Canyon running the ball, killing time. The second half also featured another Tuttle-Ural connection for a touchdown, this one for 20 yards. After all, it was too late for the hawks to come back. After a late pick 6 by American Canyon both teams went back to their locker rooms with a final score of 34-13.
Tuttle and Ural’s connection on offense was one of a few bright spots for the hawks on Saturday. “I can only control what I can control,” Ural said. “I show up, just giving it my best I can to help my team in any way.” Tamalpais plays rival Redwood at home next Saturday.