The Pioneer Football team began their season with a 24-14 against the Misericordia Cougars. This is the Pioneers' second-straingt, season-opening win. Last year's victory was also against Misericordia.

Alfred State started the day witha quick touchdown. To end an opening 3:35 drive, Justin Horvath connected on a 42 yard passing touchdown to Jazir Francois. Misericordia answered with an opening drive touchdown of their own, capping it with a 12-yard touchdown run. 

The back and forth first quarter continued, as the Pioneers took the lead again with a 13-yard rushing touchdown from Jake Palmer, putting the Pioneers up 14-7.

In the second quarter, both defenses grew into form. The Pioneer defense allowed no points and forced a turnover with an interception by Rylie Van Fleet, the second turnover of the game by the Cougars. Alfred State's offense converted on a 35-yard field goal attempt to increase their lead to 17-7 before the end of the first half.

The Pioneers did not score in the third quarter. Misericordia scored a goal-line touchdown as the quarter came to an end. Heading into the fourth, the score was 17-14 ASC.

The 4th quarter was tight throughout. A late touchdown from Horvath to Francois gave the Pioneers some breathing room, giving them a 24-14 lead. The 42-yard touchdown was the duo's second connection of the day. With 30 seconds remaining, the Pioneer defense came up with a game-sealing interception. Rylie Van Fleet tallied his second pick of the day as the Pioneers earned the first victory of the season.

Alfred State plays again next Saturday, against University of Rochester at 7 p.m. on the road.