By ANDREW CRUM, Staff Writer
Hanna will finally get to make its season debut in Week 1.
The Golden Eagles will welcome Edinburg Economedes at 7 p.m. Saturday at Sams Memorial Stadium.
Hanna expects a tough game to open its season, and it will need to play a complete game against the Jaguars.
“We know they have a good team. They’re scrappy and really physical,” Hanna coach Rene Medrano said. “We’re going to have to man up and play four solid quarters of football.”
Economedes used its rushing attack to gain more than 2,000 yards last season, and with backs Charlie Vela, Cris Izaguirre and Allen Arredondo returning the expectation to repeat the feat is high.
The Eagles used one of their scrimmages to specifically prepare for this game.
“We played Weslaco (High), and they run something similar (on offense) to Economedes, so that helped us,” Medrano said.
Hanna counters with an explosive offense led by quarterback Andy Lopez and a good receiving corps.
“We’re going to have to execute our game plan, try to move the ball the best we can and score when the opportunity presents itself,” Medrano said.
Medrano said he is pleased where the team is at and that the players are ready to go.
“I really liked what I’ve seen so far from the kids and I’m anxious to play and see what we’re all about,” he said. “It’s been a long time … so now it’s time to see where we’re at, put all the work together and see where we’re going.”
Economedes coach Gabe Pena was unable to be reached for comment.
Andrew Crum covers sports for The Brownsville Herald. You can reach him at (956) 982-6629 or via email at [email protected]. On Twitter he’s @andrewmcrum.