The St. Louis Battlehawks secured a significant victory on Sunday, triumphing over the San Antonio Brahmas 31-24 in a highly anticipated XFL matchup at the Alamodome. Despite a late surge from the Brahmas, their efforts fell short, marking their first loss of the season. With this win, the Battlehawks ascend to second place in the XFL Conference standings, while the Brahmas slip to third after Week 3.
Photo Cred: News 4 San Antonio
San Antonio (2-1) put up a fight until the end. Quarterback Chase Garbers led a resilient offense, culminating in a prolonged drive lasting over six minutes in the fourth quarter. Garbers orchestrated a one-yard touchdown pass to tight end Alize Mack, narrowing the Battlehawks’ lead to 31-24 with just 2:15 remaining. However, St. Louis’s defensive back Kameron Kelly thwarted San Antonio’s one-point conversion attempt by tackling receiver Jontre Kirklin before he could cross the goal line.
In a tense finale, Wade Phillips’ squad managed to regain possession with 1:43 left on the clock. Garbers connected with Kirklin on several passes, advancing the ball to the Battlehawks’ 44-yard line with only 51 seconds remaining. Despite the effort, Garbers’ subsequent passes fell incomplete, setting up a decisive fourth-and-four situation with 21 seconds left. Garbers’ pass on fourth down failed to find its mark, securing the victory for St. Louis.
Prior to the Brahmas’ late surge, the Battlehawks (2-1) began to assert their dominance. Quarterback A.J. McCarron delivered a pivotal play in the third quarter, connecting with wide receiver Hakeem Butler for a crucial 33-yard reception on third-and-17. This set up a 46-yard field goal from kicker Andre Szmyt, extending St. Louis’ lead to 23-18 with over 12 minutes remaining. Momentum swung further in St. Louis’s favor following a strong punt return from Mataeo Durant, leading to a 19-yard rushing touchdown from Jake Saylors.
Photo Cred: Sportskeeda
Saylors then converted a two-point attempt, pushing the Battlehawks’ lead to 31-18. McCarron showcased his prowess for St. Louis, throwing for 152 yards and a touchdown, while also contributing a rushing touchdown. Butler led the Battlehawks in receiving with 87 yards on six receptions, while Szmyt was flawless with three successful field goal attempts, including one from 54 yards.
For the Brahmas, Cody Latimer and Kirklin emerged as top receivers, with Anthony McFarland Jr. adding an eight-yard rushing touchdown to the scoreboard. Cornerback Darius Phillips made a crucial defensive play for the Brahmas, recovering a fumble from Ja’Marcus Bradley at the start of the second half. Looking ahead, the Battlehawks aim to extend their winning streak as they return home to The Dome at America’s Center in St. Louis to face the Memphis Showboats next Saturday at 11:30 A.M. C.T., airing on ABC.
