A fourth-quarter kick return touchdown by Central College’s Zack Martinelli was too little too late for the American squad as they fell 51-26 against a Mexican all-star squad in the Bowl of the Stars Saturday in Mexico.

Martinelli added three catches for 25 yards in the contest. Tight end Mitchell Boerm had one catch for 11 yards. Splitting duties at quarterback, Riley Gray was 10 of 21 for 68 yards and one touchdown pass through the air and led the Americans with 41 rushing yards on 12 carries. Offensive lineman Kyle Pepper and Cole Tanner also contributed on the offensive end.

Defensively, linebacker Jessie Peterson had five solo tackles including a 12-yard quarterback sack, and defensive back Zach Matter picked up two assisted tackles.

Placekicker Aaron Marcellus was 2-for-3 on extra point attempts, but had his 38-yard field goal attempt in the first quarter blocked.

Former Central College defensive coordinator Don De Waard once again served as the coach for the game. With the loss, his record as a coach in the game dropped to 3-2 and the series between the two teams is now tied 4-4.