The Bulldogs secured a narrow 18-15 victory over the Voodoo on September 29 at home in Aberdare. The win improves the Bulldogs’ season record to 3-1 and maintains their undefeated status in division play at 1-0. The Voodoo fall to 2-2 with a 2-1 division mark.

Bulldogs head coach Louis Runyon’s squad struck first in the game’s opening quarter. Quarterback Fred Celestine connected with Nathan Howell on a 16-yard touchdown pass at 3:59 to put the Bulldogs ahead 6-0. Earl Rivera’s extra point gave the home team a 7-0 lead.

The Voodoo responded in the second quarter with a 22-yard field goal from Wesley Johnson, narrowing the deficit to 7-3 with 6:22 remaining in the half. Voodoo quarterback Richard Ward led the passing attack, completing 24 of 46 attempts for 253 yards but was intercepted once.

Playmaking on defense was significant during the first half. At 11:43 of the third quarter, Bulldogs’ defensive end George Tirado sacked Celestine in the end zone, resulting in a safety that brought the Voodoo within two points at 7-5.

Bulldogs’ quarterback Fred Celestine finished with 319 passing yards and two touchdowns, completing 28 of 52 passes. Eric Strong contributed 88 receiving yards and scored a rushing touchdown, while fellow receiver Nathan Howell added 34 receiving yards and a rushing touchdown. Running back Jerry Burnett had limited rushing yardage (8 yards) but contributed 60 receiving yards.

Defensive efforts were notable on both sides. The Bulldogs recorded five sacks and forced one fumble recovery. The Voodoo’s defense tallied nine sacks with two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries, along with one interception.

Kicker Aaron Hall successfully made one field goal attempt, contributing to the Bulldogs’ point total. For the Voodoo, Wesley Johnson converted on two field goal tries.

The Bulldogs managed to maintain ball control and capitalize on key opportunities despite some turnovers, including a crucial fumble by Celestine at the NWO 34-yard line midway through the second quarter. The Voodoo were unable to convert their chances in the red zone.

Penalties were a factor for both teams, with the Bulldogs flagged three times for a total of 29 yards and the Voodoo recording six penalties for 49 yards.

With the victory, the Bulldogs continue to position themselves strongly within the division. The tightly contested game showcased balanced competition, but the home side’s efficient use of scoring chances and defensive pressure was the deciding factor.