November 1: Rivalry win

In a heart-pounding football season finale, the Lions faced their bitter rival ESD in a home game that would become an instant classic. The Eagles dominated early, racing to a commanding 21-0 lead before halftime that seemed to crush the Lions’ spirits. However, a crucial touchdown just before the break injected life into the home team, narrowing the score to 21-7.
The second half transformed into an epic battle of resilience and strategy. Senior quarterback Lawrence Gardener emerged as the game’s hero, leading a remarkable comeback that electrified the stadium. His touchdown midway through the fourth quarter dramatically tied the game at 21, reigniting the crowd’s hope and momentum. With less than a minute remaining, Gardener connected with a receiver in the end zone, giving the Lions a dramatic 28-21 lead. The Eagles responded swiftly, scoring and attempting a two-point conversion for the win. In a moment of supreme defensive heroism, St. Mark’s made the critical stop, securing a thrilling 28-27 victory.
This wasn’t just a game—it was a historic triumph. The win marked the first time in 11 years the Lions had defeated their closest rival, concluding their season with a respectable 6-4 record.