Tucumcari's Jakus Martinez keeps Eunice quarterback Tyler Almager out of the end zone on first-and-goal from the 2-yard line.

After catching a pass from quarterback Dalton Wood Rattlers Cameron Montano has one defender to beat on the outside to score the final touchdown during Friday's 20-19 win over Eunice.

After a hour rain delay the Tucumcari Rattlers (3-3) upset the (4-2) Eunice Cardinals 20-19 Friday night in Tucumcari.

“This was a big win for our guys,” Rattlers coach Daniel Hutchins said. “Eunice has been ranked number two in the state and we feel they came in looking past us.”

Midway through the final quarter, the Rattlers took the lead when Dalton Woods connected with Cameron Montano for a 55-yard touchdown.

“I just kept my feet moving knowing I could break the tackle and score,” Montano said.

The score was a quick and decisive response to a Cardinals touchdown two minutes earlier.

At the close of the third quarter, trailing  14-13 the Cardinals had first-and-goal at the Tucumcari 2-yard line. Cardinals quarterback Tyler Almager kept the ball and began to push the pile forward until Martinez tackled him forcing him down short of the goal line.

On second-and-and goal, a false start put the Cardinals back five yards. The next play ended with a sack. Almager fumbled on third-and-11, setting up fourth and 12 situation. The drive ended with a incomplete pass.

“Our defense has came up with some big stops,” Hutchins said. “We had a lot of kids step up their game tonight.”

Hutchins applauded the Rattlers for their spirit. Last week Hutchins urged the Rattlers to come out with energy and keep it through out the game.

The Rattlers responded to their coach as Martinez ran the opening kick off in for a touchdown.

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