Fishermen stumble in Swampscott, lose 28-22

For the first time this season, the Gloucester Fishermen was unable to capture a victory against a tough Swampscott team.

The second week of Northeastern Conference play was quite eventful. Salem narrowly overcame a struggling Saugus, while the Fishermen was handed their first loss. Coming into Friday’s game, the Fishermen were hot off of a five-game win streak. The Big Blue, on the other hand, were coming fresh off of a bye week, rested and ready to make a statement.

The Fishermen came out looking hot, gaining twelve yards on the first play. But Swampscott quickly adjusted and stuffed Gloucester to force a punt. Swampscott would similarly struggle on their first drive that resulted in a Fishermen recover. Senior captain Joseph Allen scored on a 14 yard touchdown and Jaylen Severino scored the extra point to put Gloucester ahead 7-0.

Gloucester’s struggles in this game were epitomized by a key offensive stall in the first quarter. Swampscott attempted a pass from outside of the pocket and junior Max Thomas applied just enough pressure to disrupt a pass. That allowed the pass to be intercepted by Cole Mosley-Wynn. From deep in Swampscott’s redzone, Gloucester would fail to capitalize, being stuffed in the run game and missing a field goal that gave the Big Blue the ball back.

Swampscott would tie the score before the half on a run by senior runningback Will Bush.

After halftime, Noah Bascon would pull off a 90-yard kickoff return touchdown to completely shift the momentum in favor of Swampscott.

Unfortunately for the Big Blue, Gloucester was not done fighting. Allen would strike back on a 67 yard touchdown scamper to tie the game.

From there, Swampscott would tack on two consecutive touchdowns: one on a Jack Duffy reception and another on the legs of Will Bush.

While the Fishermen would still manage to score a touchdown and attempt to mount a comeback, they would ultimately fall short. Swampscott would recover Severino’s onside kick to close out the game.

The Fishermen look to get back on track on Friday against the Saugus Sachems for Gloucester’s senior night.