GULF SHORES — The Gulf Shores Dolphins made a powerful statement in their first game of the season with a 41-20 win over the St. Michael Cardinals.

The game not only showcased performances from key players and set the tone for the upcoming season but it also set a Gulf Shores High School record.

After Ronnie Royal came down with an interception in the shadow of his own goal post, Kolin Wilson took the next play from scrimmage 99 yards for a rushing touchdown to mark the longest scoring play in Dolphin football history. The score came early in the third quarter and gave Gulf Shores a 34-0 lead over St. Michael.

Dolphins take early lead

The Dolphins wasted no time in establishing their dominance on the field. To kick off the match, Will Langston completed a 35-yard field goal which granted Gulf Shores an early lead of 3-0.

Momentum remained on the hosts’ side when freshman quarterback Jud Harris orchestrated a play that handed the ball off to Royal for a 20-yard touchdown. Langston's successful extra-point attempt further boosted the Dolphins' advantage.

Cardinals formulate response in second half

The St. Michael Cardinals, despite a scoreless first half, displayed determination to turn the tide in the second half. Freshman quarterback Gunner Rivers connected with sophomore Tucker Tomlinson for a 30-yard scoring pass for the first St. Michael touchdown. Patricio Garcia's successful extra point narrowed the gap to 34-7.

The Cardinals continued their efforts in the fourth quarter and St. Michael was rewarded with touchdowns after Rivers’ throws to Tomlinson and Brody Jones hit paydirt.

Coaches’ response

Gulf Shores head coach Mark Hudspeth praised the standout performances of Wilson and Royal, noting their pivotal roles in the victory.

"These guys are primed for a great year," said Hudspeth. "We just have to eliminate some penalties, it was pretty evident it was our first game."

Hudspeth recognized that first-game jitters played a role and expressed optimism for the upcoming challenges.

St. Michael head coach Philip Rivers reflected on the game as a learning opportunity for his young team.

"Everything that could have gone wrong went wrong early," he said. "Against this team, you have to make the routine plays.”

Despite the adversity faced, Rivers expressed encouragement and determination to improve for the future.

"I am not down. I am disappointed it got out of hand, nobody likes to get beat,” Rivers said. “But I left encouraged only because I think it can be fixed."

Up next

The Dolphins will bring their 1-0 record back to the Gulf Shores Sportsplex next Friday for the Class 5A Region 1 opener against the Citronelle Wildcats. The Cardinals, now 0-1, move on to their home opener against the Chickasaw Chieftains next Thursday.