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Hard Fought Game Results in Disappointment

Raiders Winning Streak Broken
THS Raiders head out to the field on Friday, November 1, facing off against Naugatuck on Senior Night.
THS Raiders head out to the field on Friday, November 1, facing off against Naugatuck on Senior Night.
E. Sullivan

In a game that showcased grit and resilience, Torrington’s football team pushed the defending NVL Champion Naugatuck Greyhounds to the limit in a narrow 20-17 loss Friday night at Torrington’s Robert Frost Sports Complex. Though they fell short, the Raiders made it clear they are a determined team.

Torrington entered the game with a 6-0 record and a growing reputation. They controlled the first half, and scored first. Raider kicker Jackson Brewer-Karimi, a solid junior talent, converted each opportunity he was given, setting Torrington apart on the scoreboard when he hit a 25-yard field goal in the fourth quarter, keeping Torrington in the lead at 17-12.

In an interview with CT insider, Head Coach Gaitan Rodriguez emphasized the journey his team has been on to reach this point. “We’ve come a long way from two years ago,” he said. “We’re a gritty team,” and Friday night proved his words right. Quarterback Micheal Ahoua rushed for 86 yards on 17 carries and drove his team forward. His leadership helped set up a late first-half touchdown, capped by Aiden Hansen’s three-yard dash into the end zone with just four seconds remaining, sending the Raiders into halftime with a hard-earned 14-6 lead.

Even as Naugatuck mounted a comeback in the second half, Torrington did not back down. Brewer-Karimi’s reliable kicking and the defense’s persistence kept the score close. With just over two minutes remaining, the Greyhounds managed to edge ahead 20-17, but Torrington did not give up. Ahoua led a determined drive, bringing the Raiders down to Naugatuck’s 24-yard line and raising hopes of another last-minute triumph—echoing their recent thrilling win over WCA.

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Part of the senior night display – Michael Ahoua and Kel Camara.

But with just 16 seconds left, Naugatuck’s Jordan Roach intercepted a pass in the end zone, sealing the victory for the Greyhounds. It was a tough end to an impressive effort, but the Raiders left the field with their pride intact, showing the kind of grit that Coach Rodriguez commented on.

Friday’s game also marked Senior Night for the boys, and family and fans filled the stands for the game, showing energy and spirit for the team. Half-time performances by the THS Marching Band and Cheerleaders were crowd-pleasers, as well. Read more about the team’s determination and grit in this article by THS Security Guard Rusty Elliott.

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