Staff report

SALISBURY — Jason Zapata’s third field goal of the game proved decisive, as Livingstone College’s football team pulled out a 23-21 non-conference win over Allen University on Saturday night.

Livingstone (2-1) trailed 21-20 when Zapata trotted onto the field for 22-yard attempt with 3:18 remaining. His kick capped an 11-play drive in which the Blue Bears were able to take five minutes off the clock.

Allen still had ample time to strike back, but an interception by Justin Hutchinson sealed victory for Livingstone.

Both teams posted modest passing stats, but both teams got a big-play touchdown on special teams.

Livingstone’s Mohamed Nyanmukenga totaled 138 rushing yards.

Chancellor Bryant had a 50-yard punt return TD for Livingstone in the second quarter that provided a 10-0 halftime lead.

Livingstone’s halftime edge disappeared in the third quarter, as Allen (0-2) made two big plays — a 48-yard scoring run by Beau Harrington and a 74-yard pass play form Jamir Dismukes to Kaleb Cummings.

The Blue Bears reclaimed the lead at 17-14 in the fourth quarter on Brenton Hilton’s 14-yard TD pass to Chris Washington.

With Livingstone leading 20-14 after Zapata’s second field goal, Allen stunned 1,310 fans at Alumni Memorial Stadium with a 96-yard kickoff return touchdown by Nanders Lawrence with 8:33 left to play, and the PAT provided the visitors with a one-point lead.

Zapata erased it, and the Blue Bears held on.

Davion Watkins had two sacks for Livingstone.

Livingstone is on the road at Bowie State next Saturday, as the Blue Bears begin CIAA play.

•••

JyMikaah Wells (Salisbury) carried five times for 18 yards for Livingstone. Freshman Jaemias Morrow (North Rowan) had a carry for Allen that lost yardage.