Waterville, Maine. – The Colby Football team opened their 2021 campaign Saturday afternoon, hosting Wesleyan University.  The Mules lost to the Cardinals 5-21 to open the season 0-1.
 
Colby entered this game pumped up and full of energy, taking the field for the first time in nearly two years. They looked sharp in the first quarter, coming up with a big turnover on downs in their own territory on the first drive of the game. Colby scored the first points of the game early as Moises Celaya drilled a 29 field goal, giving the Mules a 3-0 lead. The defense stayed sharp, forcing another turnover on downs on the next drive. Julian Young was everywhere today, picking up a team high of six tackles.
 
Wesleyan picked up the pace quickly in the second quarter, though. They took advantage of a wayward snap on a Colby punt attempt, getting the ball at the 2 yard line and quickly allowing Charlie McPhee to punch in a touchdown. The Cardinals kept up the pressure, converting an interception and completing a deep pass for their second touchdown, making it 14-3 at the half.
 
The Mules came out strong in the third quarter, putting together a couple of good drives and out-gaining Wesleyan. Matt Hertz looked sharp at quarterback and was able to find Matt Panker (pictured left) a game high seven times. 
 
Early in the fourth quarter, Wesleyan was finally able to break through Colby's stout front-seven free for an 84 yard scoring run, putting the Cardinals up 21-3. The Mules' defense stayed aggressive and picked up a safety late in fourth quarter, as a snap sailed over the head of the quarterback and through the back of the end zone. Wesleyan was able to close out the game with possession, kneeling as time ran out for a 21-5 victory.
 
The excitement on campus to return to action was impactful, and this Mules team showed great promise all afternoon.  The group is full of talent and will be competitive all year.  Colby will look to bounce back next week as they travel to Amherst to face the Mammoths on September 25^th at 1:00pm.