Senior defensive back Landon Drake is eluding defenders on an interception return.
Photo by Estrella Urias
By Adrian Norman
from eaglenews.ccaisd.net
The Van Horn Eagles hosted the Menard Yellow Jackets on Friday night to commence district play. The Eagles had a great week of practice and were eager to take the field after losing a close game to McCamey last week. They quickly established a rhythm, controlled the game on both sides of the ball, and never looked back as they cruised their way to a 60-21 victory.
The explosive offense amassed 599 total yards on offense, and five different players scored touchdowns. SR QB Rafael Rodriguez ended the night passing 13/14, 211 yards, and 4 touchdowns. JR QB Clinton Flowers was the top rusher and ran for 182 yards on nine carries, but the longest run came from Ernest Friel who scored on a 74 yard run. SR WR Luis Escajeda lead all receivers and hauled in 4 passes for 90 yards.
The relentless defense found their form and never let the Menard offense get anything going on offense. They caused seven turnovers, five were fumble recoveries and the other two were interceptions by Clinton Flowers. Isaac Baeza and Damien Tarango played exceptional, and each had 3 solo tackes and assisted on 7 others.
Coach Brian Gibson said, ““I felt like we continued to build on our offensive success from the McCamey game and were able to correct some defensive issues we had. Our overall effort and intensity was much better. We made it our goal to start district off 1 – 0 and build off our tough pre – district schedule. We had some reserve players step up and play well, in particular senior James King and junior Kobe Mendoza. We are excited about our next opportunity for a district win this Friday against the Irion County Hornets. The Hornets present some size challenges for the Eagles but we feel our speed, execution, and discipline will give us an opportunity to win.”
The Eagles hit the road next week and will make the long drive to Mertzon to square off with the Irion County Hornets. A win by the Eagles will guarantee them a spot in the post-season, and make them a perfect 2-0 in district play. Go Eagles!
