The Emery Spartans are still in search of their first victory of the season after dropping a 23-20 thriller to the American Leadership Academy Eagles Friday night in Spanish Fork.

Locked in a 20-20 tie with only eight seconds remaining in the fourth quarter, American Leadership kicker Ethan Valle split the uprights with a 33-yard field goal. Emery had one last chance, but a down field heave fell incomplete to end the game.

Emery held a 20-12 lead with under eight minutes to play in the fourth quarter. ALA tied the contest as quarterback Jacob Negus found Fielding Morley for a nine yard touchdown pass on fourth down. ALA added a successful two-point conversion moments later to tie the game.

Led by senior Szion Gibson the Emery offense enjoyed its best outing of the season. In his senior campaign debut, Gibson rushed the ball for 62 yards and one score, while also hauling in three passes for 15 yards.

Trailing 6-0 in the second quarter Gibson gave Emery the lead by scoring on fourth goal from the one yard line. Emery later added a second touchdown as quarterback Seth Justice connected with Jaymes Bowman on a 18-yard touchdown pass.

Emery created its largest lead of the season as Jace Curtis found the end zone on a 17 yard run in the third quarter. Curtis carried the ball five times for 38 yards and also caught one pass for 22 yards.

While ALA found success offensively late in the contest, it was their defense that kept them within striking distance. Negus scored the game’s first touchdown as he intercepted a deflected pass and returned it 65-yards for a defensive touchdown. Trailing 13-6 in the third period, linebacker Nathan Johnson recorded an interception, also returning it for touchdown.

Statistically Friday’s contest was nearly even in a turnover heavy contest. Only six yards separated the two teams offensively, while ALA committed six turnovers, compared to Emery’s four. ALA finished 4-10 on third down conversions, while Emery ended 3-10.

Now 0-3 on the season the Spartans will shift their focus to Friday’s road contest against Juan Diego. The Soarin’ Eagles are also in search of their first victory after dropping games to Bear River, Park City and Skyline.

Live coverage of Friday’s contest is scheduled to begin at 6:20 p.m. With the Landon’s Diesel Service Pre-Game Show. Kick-Off will follow shortly after at 7:00.

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