Hays, Kan. – For the first time since 2015 the Pittsburg State University football team leaves Hays, Kan. with a win after taking down Fort Hays State University, 34-24.

The Gorillas (8-3, 8-3 MIAA) would start the game on the right foot thanks to a Dallis Flowers 95 yard opening kickoff return to put the Gorillas up to an early 7-0 lead. A quick answer by the Tigers would tie the game back up at seven a piece. Both the Tigers and Gorillas would add a touchdown before the end of the first quarter to head into the second quarter of action tied at 14.

The Gorillas defense would step up before half holding the Tigers scoreless in the second quarter. Meanwhile the Gorilla offense would add a quick score with a three play drive capped off with a 82 yard touchdown pass from Chad Dodson Jr. to Elijah Harris, to put the Gorillas on top 21-14.

After a three and out by the Tigers the Gorillas would add to its lead off the foot of Cross Holmes with a 22 yard field goal before half.

After a slow third quarter the Gorillas would open the fourth quarter with a 43 yard touchdown pass from Dodson to Jalen Martin. A late score by Fort Hays would give the game its final score of 34-24.

Dodson completed 20 of 31 passes in the game totaling 294 yards. The freshman from Jacksonville, Fla. would finish with three touchdowns and a single interceptions in his first start as a Gorilla. Elijah Harris hauled in three receptions for 122 yards and a touchdown. Christian Carter notched six grabs for 77 yards and a touchdown.

On the other side of the ball, Markel Roby had 11 tackles and an interception. Flowers and Jack Barkley would both haul in a interception of their own.