9-12-2025 9:53pm

Tigers Fall to Piedra Vista 21–14 in Road Battle; Homecoming Stakes Rise

Chris Edwards Editor

Farmington- The Alamogordo High Tigers suffered their first loss of the season Friday night, falling 21–14 to the Piedra Vista Panthers in a tightly contested road matchup that could have ripple effects on state rankings and next week’s high-stakes homecoming game.

The Tigers, now 3–1, opened strong with a 36-yard touchdown run by senior quarterback Nate Best late in the first quarter. Kicker Moreno’s extra point gave Alamogordo a 7–0 lead with 1:19 remaining in the opening frame. But Piedra Vista answered in the second quarter with a 20-yard touchdown pass from Nicholas Halverson to Ethan Duckett, tying the game 7–7 at the 7:01 mark. The score remained deadlocked through halftime and into the third quarter.

Momentum shifted early in the fourth when Duckett punched in a 6-yard touchdown run, giving Piedra Vista a 14–7 lead with 11:29 to play. Alamogordo responded with a determined drive, capped by a second touchdown to even the score at 14–14. But with just over two minutes remaining, Piedra Vista struck again—Halverson connected with Duckett for a second score, sealing the Panthers’ 21–14 victory.

Ranking Implications

Alamogordo entered the game ranked in the top 10 statewide and among the top contenders in New Mexico’s 6A division. The loss to Piedra Vista, a strong opponent, may cause a slight drop in the Tigers’ standing, especially as other programs like Centennial and Cleveland continue to post dominant wins.

Still, the Tigers remain in playoff contention and have shown resilience in close games. Coach A.J. Cisco emphasized pre-game that the team is focused on growth: “We’re learning how to fight through adversity."

Homecoming Preview: Alamogordo vs. Organ Mountain

The Tigers return home next Friday to host Organ Mountain in their annual homecoming game—a matchup now charged with urgency. Organ Mountain enters the week on a three-game losing streak, making them a prime target for Alamogordo’s bounce-back effort.

With homecoming festivities planned across the district, beginning with a parade on Wednesday, the game will be more than just a contest—it’s a chance for the Tigers to reaffirm their strength, rally the community, and reestablish momentum heading into district play.

Final Thoughts

Friday’s loss was a test of grit and execution. Alamogordo showed flashes of dominance, especially in the first quarter, but struggled to contain Piedra Vista’s late-game surge. As the Tigers prepare for homecoming, the focus will be on discipline, recovery, and capitalizing on home-field advantage.

For fans, students, and alumni, next week’s game offers more than just football—it’s a celebration of pride, perseverance, and the enduring spirit of Alamogordo.