GUSTINE — After a dominant win over Riverbank the previous week, Gustine High’s football team stumbled on the road Friday night, falling 34-14 to the Yosemite Badgers in a game that saw the Reds plagued by early mistakes and a slow start.

The loss dropped Gustine to 2-2 on the season, while Yosemite evened its record at 2-2, avenging a defeat from their last meeting in September 2024.

“It was a long road trip, and we came out flat,” said Gustine head coach Collin Lane. “We started the game with a handful of mental mistakes like holding and false starts that cost us early on.”

Despite the setbacks, Lane noted bright spots in the performance, pointing to senior running back Jesus Mejia, who racked up 132 rushing yards, including a 58-yard touchdown run. Freshman Avery Etheridge added the Reds’ second score with a two-yard touchdown carry.

Lane said the team’s unique mix of upperclassmen and underclassmen has created a strong internal culture. “They have bonded well,” he said. “They’ve been working out together since January and went through football camp together. They are very supportive and hold each other accountable. There’s no negative energy.”

Looking ahead, Gustine will host Mariposa County at 7:15 p.m. Friday. The Grizzlies have posted at least 31 points in every game this season, presenting a formidable challenge for the Reds as they aim to bounce back and tighten up execution on both sides of the ball.