Husson Defeated Western New England 26-21

The victory at the Winkin Sports Complex marked the first win of the season for a Maine Division III football team.

Updated on Oct. 4, 2026 in Football

Expressive sports illustration featuring collegiate football players in green and gold uniforms mid-action on a turf field. — Husson University defeated Western New England 26-21 on Friday, securing their first win of the season behind a strong defensive performance in Bangor. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Husson University secured a 26-21 victory over Western New England on October 4 at the Winkin Sports Complex in Bangor. This win represents the first victory for any Division III football program in Maine this season.

Why it matters

The win marks a significant turning point for Husson University, which improved to a 1-4 overall record after a challenging start to the season. The defensive performance provided the necessary momentum to overcome Western New England, which now holds a 2-3 record.

Husson University defense recorded four interceptions in the game, including an 85-yard return for a touchdown by Melvyn Telisca. Daniel Ruiz Cantu contributed to the win by scoring two rushing touchdowns.

The players

Husson University

This is a private university located in Bangor, Maine, that competes in NCAA Division III football.

Western New England

This is a private university based in Springfield, Massachusetts, with a football program competing in Division III.

Melvyn Telisca

He is a football player for Husson University who recorded an 85-yard interception return for a touchdown in the victory.

Daniel Ruiz Cantu

He is a football player for Husson University who scored two rushing touchdowns during the game.

Maine Maritime Academy

This is a public college in Castine, Maine, whose football program has struggled with a long losing streak.

The details

Husson University relied on a disruptive defensive effort to overcome their opponents, forcing four interceptions throughout the contest. This defensive dominance was highlighted by Melvyn Telisca's 85-yard interception return for a touchdown, while Daniel Ruiz Cantu managed the scoring on the ground with two rushing touchdowns.

October 4, 2026: Husson University defeated Western New England.

Season Trajectory

Husson University's victory provides a much-needed morale boost that contrasts sharply with the struggles of other regional programs like Maine Maritime Academy. This win helps define the competitive landscape for Maine teams within their conference this season.

The victory moves Husson to a 1-4 record while dropping Western New England to 2-3 on the season. The four-interception game by the Husson defense provides a positive statistical outlier for their unit going into the remainder of the schedule.

The takeaway

Husson University has demonstrated that defensive volatility can single-handedly change the outcome of a close game. Maintaining this level of turnover production will be essential for the team to continue climbing in the conference standings.