Matt Vines

EAST POINT – When Ashton Almond evaded one tackler and spun around another to find the end zone late in the fourth quarter against Tensas Academy, it appeared as though Riverdale would be gearing up for a game-winning two-point conversion.

But a yellow penalty flag flew from the back judge and wiped out Riverdale’s touchdown – and the Rebels’ (0-5) chance at its first victory of the season.

A questionable holding call seemingly away from the play eliminated a 13-yard touchdown pass by Tanner Carlisle in which he picked up a low snap and found Almond.

Tensas (2-3) went on the road and prevailed in a 36-30 win Friday.

Almond scored three touchdowns with Carlisle adding another in the 30-point performance, which more than doubled Riverdale’s output in its first four games.

“The running game was working, and Ashton just refused to be stopped,” said Riverdale coach Nathan Edie. “But unfortunately we had five turnovers.”

The offensive output comes as Carlisle continues to get healthier from a leg injury, looking the best he has all season.

Riverdale’s 36 points allowed is a season-low as well for a unit that’s given up between 46-54 points in its first four losses.

Edie said the defense moved a few pieces around this week, which helped with the improvement.

“We moved Ashton to a safety/linebacker hybrid,” Edie said. “Ryder Shaver stepped in at corner and made several big plays on the outside.

“Unfortunately, we still have given up too many big plays. They got a touchdown right before the half that was big for them.”

The loss stops a four-game winning streak for Riverdale in the Tensas Academy series.
Riverdale hits the field next against River Oaks, arguably the best MAIS team in Louisiana.