Hawks shut out Criminals, extend win streak to four

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - Gila Ridge continued its strong start to the season Thursday night, shutting out the Yuma Criminals 21-0 at Curly Culp Memorial Stadium at Doan Field.

The Hawks entered the second quarter with a 7-0 lead and held off several opportunities from the Criminals.

Criminals quarterback Larissa Anaya looked for Sarah Wilford on a deep pass, but Gila Ridge's Isabella Vargas made a key defensive play, breaking up the pass before it could turn into a big gain.

Just before halftime, the Hawks ran a double handoff that eventually left freshman Kira Bathrick with the ball. Bathrick found Jayna Faber for a spectacular catch, but Ariana Rehkopf for the Crims pulled Faber's flag just before the goal line to keep the Hawks out of the end zone.

Gila Ridge carried its 7-0 advantage into halftime.

On the opening drive of the third quarter, the Hawks moved into scoring position before attempting a field goal. Criminals Anaya Guy came up with a big play, elevating to block the kick and keep the Criminals within one score.

Gila Ridge would eventually find the end zone again and pull away, finishing with a 21-0 victory.

The win gives the Hawks their fourth straight victory and improves their record to 4-1.

While the Criminals fall to 3-2 on the season.