The Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School football team fell to the Nantucket Whalers Tuesday at Fenway Park during the 44th annual Island Cup.

The Whalers were able to stop the Vineyarders in overtime. — Ray Ewing

After missing a game-winning field goal with two seconds to go in the fourth quarter, the Vineyarders were unable to capitalize in the overtime period, losing 22-14.

The nailbiter started slow and staggered. In the first half, the Vineyarders struggled to find their groove, with Nantucket dominating the overall play. The first touchdown of the day was scored by Whaler David Guillen-Taveras, who punched in a two-yard run.

The disjointed first half led to six punts overall from both teams combined. Nearing the end of the second quarter the Vineyard saw their first real chance at a touchdown, but were unable to capitalize as the pass was incomplete in the end zone.  

The Vineyarders gained momentum at the start of the second half, converting their first third down attempt of the game, with William Nicholson running 12 yards for a touchdown. 

Vineyarders had some highlight reel plays. — Ray Ewing

The point after attempt was wide left, putting the score at 7-6 Whalers. That momentum was quickly smothered when Whaler Eli MacIver ran 45 yards for a touchdown seconds later, putting Nantucket up 14-6. 

The game swung the Vineyarders’ way yet again, with Guilherme Oliveira scoring a touchdown for the Vineyard. Oliveira then jump-passed it to Syius Rivera to tie the game with a key two-point conversion with around 8 minutes left to play.  

With a chance to win the game in the last two seconds of regulation, Victor DeSouza missed the 27-yard field goal attempt. Overtime started with the ball in Nantucket’s possession. Whaler Arann Hanlon rushed nine yards for the touchdown before converting the two points himself, putting Nantucket in the lead 22-14.

The Vineyarders had a chance to respond, but were setback with flags and a strong defensive effort from the Whalers.