Saint Francis falls to Saint Xavier, 36-24

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) - Saint Francis struggled to defend the high powered offense of Saint Xavier, falling 36-24 and losing out on the MSFA Mideast title.

The Cougars were struck by injury on the opening drive as Daniel Carter came off the field limping with a left hamstring problem. He was unable to return and the Cougars struggled on the ground, picking up just 3.1 yards a carry.

Saint Francis grabbed the lead on the opening drive of the second half as Shaine Tierney hit Ben Clifford for a 13 yard touchdown catch. The score put the Cougars up 21-16.

But Saint Xavier quarterback Anthony Kroop took over, with third and fourth quarter touchdown passes of 32 and 40 yards to put the game out of reach.

At 7-2, the Cougars will hope for an at large bid into the NAIA tournament. Saint Francis currently has a streak of 10 consecutive postseason appearances. They'll hit the road next Saturday to take on Taylor.