9/6/2025 Fulton, MO – The Westminster football team opened its 2025 campaign with a comeback victory on the road, defeating Manchester University 21-14 on Saturday afternoon. After trailing by 6 points in the first quarter, the Blue Jays tightened up defensively and leaned on timely plays in all three quarters to secure the win. 

Manchester struck first, capitalizing on a short field with a 19-yard touchdown pass. Just minutes later, Westminster responded as Marquis Williams broke free for a 16-yard touchdown run to even the score at 7-6. The Spartans added another score late in the first quarter on a one-yard run, taking a 14-6 lead into the second. From there, the Blue Jay defense held firm, shutting out Manchester over the final three quarters. Westminster chipped away before halftime, with kicker William Corley drilling a 34-yard field goal in the closing seconds of the half to cut the deficit to 14-9. Momentum carried into the third quarter as Trey Thomas connected with Michael Worthy for a 17-yard touchdown strike, giving Westminster its first lead of the afternoon at 15-14. Corley extended the advantage later in the period with a 33-yard field goal, and he added insurance with a 44-yarder in the fourth quarter to cap the scoring. 

Thomas led the passing attack, completing 17 of 42 attempts for 187 yards and one touchdown. Keegan Zdybel paced with 56 yards on four catches, while Gabe Dace added 46 yards. Worthy's lone touchdown reception proved to be the game-winner. Williams finished with 79 rushing yards and the Blue Jays' first touchdown of the season. Defensively, Westminster clamped down after the opening quarter, forcing punts and keeping Manchester out of rhythm the rest of the way. 

With the 21-14 win, Westminster begins the season 1-0 and will look to build on the early momentum as they prepare for their home opener next Saturday against Eureka. Kick-off is set for 5 p.m. in Fulton, where the Blue Jays will also celebrate Homecoming.