The Spartan freshman football team nearly came back in the final moments of Thursday’s game against Seattle Prep to pull out a victory, but a final Hail Mary pass was picked off as the visiting Panthers preserved their 26-22 win.

Down 20-6 at halftime, Bainbridge gave up another score in the third quarter and trailed 26-6. But Francis Toglia scored on a two-yard run and Zach Smith added his second touchdown of the game late in the fourth quarter. On both occasions the Spartans were successful in two-point conversions, bringing the team to within four points.

Angelo Ritualo’s onside kick was recovered by the Spartans with a minute remaining, but three plays lost a yard and set up the final desperation pass.

“We had a couple of missed opportunities, but we battled to the final seconds of the game,” coach Sean Eaton said.

Smith had 12 carries for 101 yards, and Ritualo rushed eight times for 78 yards. Blake Jensen had three receptions for 52 yards.

Smith led the defense with three tackles, 12 assists and a fumble recovery, while Ritualo had four tackles and six assists.

The team plays their final game of the season on Wednesday against Roosevelt at Seattle’s Memorial Stadium.

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