Humidity and football isn’t usually an enjoyable combination. That proved to be the case on Friday night for Robinson as they fell to 1-1 on the year with a 30-18 loss to Wharton (2-0). Mistakes plagued the Knights all night as the offense turned the ball over four times.

“Way too many turnovers, too many mistakes,” said head coach Shawn Taylor. “In this heat, we have a lot of guys going both ways, it’s tough.”

The first turnover for the Robinson offense came on the opening drive of the game, with a fumble leading to a Wharton touchdown just a few plays later. After a field goal, the 9-0 lead for the Wildcats was cut into by Anfernee Alston (’17), who busted through would-be tacklers for a 15-yard touchdown run.

Momentum changed hands multiple times throughout the rest of the first half. A touchdown and a two-point conversion extended the Wharton lead to 17-6, but on the ensuing kickoff, J.J. Henderson (’16) returned the ball 91 yards for a touchdown, getting the Knights into the locker room down only five.

“We kept battling,” said Taylor. “Perspective-wise, it’s a big school and it’s not a district game, so we can come back.”

The two teams traded touchdowns in the third quarter, with Robinson’s Anthony Krouse Jr. (’17) getting the Knights back within five heading into the fourth quarter. Unfortunately, a tired Robinson team was outlasted in the fourth as the Wildcats tacked on another score.

The Robinson offense struggled throughout the night, with Alston sticking out as the biggest bright spot. He rushed for 174 yards on 26 carries, picking up both his second 100-yard rushing game of the season and his second touchdown.

The offense, despite their struggles, may face a tougher loss in the coming days as Taylor confirmed that quarterback Malik Tyson (’16) has a hand injury that was set to be evaluated after the game.

Next up for the Knights is the short drive up Dale Mabry to take on Plant in the annual Battle of South Tampa. Robinson is looking for their first win in the rivalry since 2004. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m.