ORONO, ME – Merrimack College head football coach Mike Gennetti preached the importance of putting together a complementary game, and that's exactly what the Warriors provided in a 23-14 victory over the Maine Black Bears at Alfond Stadium on Saturday night.
Merrimack safety Danny Simms got the Warriors on the board with a punt block for a touchdown in the second quarter. Warrior cornerback Juice Ricks extended Merrimack's lead to 14-3 when he recorded a pick-6 in the third quarter. AJ Hairston Jr. and the offense swiftly answered with a third-quarter touchdown drive, and the defense put the game away when Dwayne Green Jr. recorded a game-sealing sack.
It marks Merrimack's first-ever win against an opponent from the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA).
"For us to come up here to the CAA, on the road, and get a win is great for our kids," Gennetti said. "They've worked so hard, bought in so much. I'm just very grateful to get this win and coach these kids."
After Maine cut Merrimack's lead to one possession, the Warriors responded with a six-play, 59-yard drive that took less than three minutes. Warrior running back Demarcus McElroy did the honors with a six-yard touchdown, which extended Merrimack's lead to 21-11 with 45 seconds left in the third quarter.
With two minutes left in the game and Merrimack clutching a seven-point lead, Dwayne Green Jr. recorded a safety when he tackled Maine quarterback Eddie Buehler. The safety resulted in the Warriors taking a two-possession lead and ultimately put the game on ice.
Merrimack limited Maine to 199 yards of total offense including a notable 53 rushing yards allowed on 31 carries (1.7 yards per carry). Danny Simms was a star for the defense as he totaled eight tackles to go along with his punt-block touchdown and interception. Rajahn Cooper made six tackles including a sack.
Merrimack's running game was a key factor in the second half with Matthias Latham (16 carries, 74 yards) and AJ Hairston (10 carries, 76 yards) leading the way on the ground.
The Warriors (1-2) travel to fourth-ranked Tarleton State next Saturday with kickoff set for 7 p.m.
