For one important stretch Friday night, Galion stood just two points away from erasing an early deficit and changing the direction of its season opener. Then St. Marys Memorial took over. The Roughriders scored the game’s final 22 points and pulled away for a 36–12 victory over the Tigers Friday night at St. Marys.
Galion Works Its Way Back
St. Marys claimed the early advantage, moving ahead 7–0 during the opening quarter before extending its lead to 14–6 by halftime. Galion came back after the break and reduced the margin to 14–12 during the third quarter. At that point, the Tigers were one successful two-point conversion away from a tie, and the game appeared headed toward a close finish.
The final score gives little indication of how competitive the game had become.
St. Marys Takes Control
Galion never scored again. St. Marys answered the Tigers’ comeback with 22 consecutive points, transforming a two-point contest into a decisive 24-point victory. The result gives the game two distinct stories. Galion remained within striking distance through much of the evening and demonstrated that it could respond after falling behind. The Roughriders, however, controlled the closing portion of the game and prevented the Tigers from completing the comeback.
St. Marys begins the season 1–0, while Galion returns home with an 0–1 record.
A Dramatic Reversal
Friday’s outcome also reversed the result of last season’s meeting. Galion defeated St. Marys 35–6 in the 2025 opener, beginning a season in which the Tigers won 11 games and advanced to a regional championship game. This time, the Roughriders earned the decisive victory. The two results represent a 53-point change in the scoring margin from one season to the next.
Complete Game Broadcast Available
The entire game can be watched through the Rider Nation Station complete game broadcast.
Another Road Test Ahead
Galion will remain on the road for its second game of the season, traveling to Carey on Friday, August 28. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 PM.
St. Marys will visit Bath the same evening.