In a game where the ball seemed to be everywhere but in possession of an offensive player, Gilbert bounced back in a big way in a 29-6 road victory over Goldwater Friday.

Depite seven turnovers, Gilbert (3-1) was powered by scoring touchdowns in each phase of the game. “We had some big plays, offensively, defensively and from special teams,” coach Derek Zellner said.

Gilbert’s game plan was to stop the run against a Goldwater team that averaged 451 rushing yards.

Goldwater running backs Earnest Greenwood and Rascheed Sterling went into the game averaging 20.5 and 15.1 yards per carry, respectively. Gilbert’s defense stifled Goldwater’s high-powered rushing attack and recovered six fumbles, one  for a touchdown.

“For us to put a stop to those guys, it shows we can defend any style of play,” quarterback Will Plummer said.

“I feel like we balled out, that was one of our best defensive line games that we’ve had in a while,” defensive lineman Manuel Meza said. “The fumbles were amazing to pick up. They really changed the game.”

So did Tyler Hironaka.

Gilbert led 15-0 at halftime. Hironaka lined up to return the second half kickoff and never looked back once he caught the ball, returning the kick for a touchdown to give Gilbert a commanding 22-0.

“I was hoping to return that kick to maybe kill the attitude of the game for them and give us a little upbringing and boost us to keep performing in the second half,” Hironaka said.

Gilbert turned the ball over with four interceptions and three lost fumbles.

“Our offense needs to work on carrying the ball a lot. That starts with myself, I definitely need to work on ball security this week,” Plummer said.

Gilbert travels to Sunrise Mountain next Friday.