The Pelham Memorial High School varsity football team suffered its first defeat of the season against Dobbs Ferry last Friday, losing an exciting, back-and-forth game on the road, 42-35.

The game was tight from the opening quarter until the end, with each team matching the other score for score.  At halftime, the teams were tied at 19-19.  At the end of the third quarter, the Pelicans clung to a one point lead,  27-26.  Pelham and Dobbs Ferry traded scores again in the fourth quarter, with the Pelicans ahead 35-34, with a few minutes to go.  Dobbs Ferry then took the lead with a touchdown and two point conversion to go up, 42-35.  The Pelican offense came back on the field for one final drive, but ultimately turned the ball over on downs, sealing the game.

Despite the loss, Pelham showcased their best offensive effort of the season, with 397 total yards, including 241 through the air, and 156 on the ground. On the opposing side, Dobbs Ferry recorded a total of 487 offensive yards, with 249 passing, and 238 rushing.

The loss marked Pelham’s fourth straight loss on the road dating back to the 2024 season, and places the team in second place in the Section One Class B standings, with a record of 2-1, tied with Irvington High School, Henry Hudson High School, and Sleepy Hollow High School.

Pelham will look to bounce back on Friday evening, in a road matchup versus Haldane High School, which has a record of 2-0 this season.