RGVSPORTS.COM
Rio Grande City rallied to score twice in three minutes late during Thursday’s home season opener against La Joya High and pulled away with a 12-7 win at Joe Sanchez Stadium in Rio Grande City.
Trailing 7-0 late in the third quarter, the Rattlers scored twice on Jason Perez touchdown passes between a few minutes spanning the third and fourth quarters.
It marked an opening win for in coach Aaron Garcia’s debut at the helm of the Rattlers.
“What I liked is our kids didn’t give up,” Garcia said. “They showed a lot of character coming back. We picked up the tempo offensively and started moving the ball. Jason showed a lot of poise.”
Perez, a junior, connected with receivers Jacob Guerra and Diego Garcia during the second half.
The Rattlers overcame three first-half turnovers. The defense starred early and often, keeping the Coyotes at bay despite the giveaways.
“Our defense played solid all night,” Garcia said. “We kept them in check. Our defensive box is pretty solid and we have a lot of experience there. We were very sound and disciplined.”
Along with Guerra and Perez, linebackers J.C. Perez and Jeremy Moreno also impressed in a confidence-boosting win for Rio Grande City.
“It’s huge,” Garcia said. “Not just for me, but for them, at this point we don’t have a player that stands out above anybody. But as a group, we can be pretty solid collectively.”
EDINBURG ECONOMEDES 41, BROWNSVILLE HANNA 10: At Edinburg, Mike Medellin scored three touchdowns, including a 91-yard return to start the second half, for the Jaguars.
Economedes’ offense, defense and special teams scored, as well, in the season opener for both schools.
“I was very proud of the coaching staff and the kids,” Econ coach Gabe Pena said. “They prepared for the last month and it showed tonight. They performed well and that’s all a coach could ask for in Week 1.”
PSJA SOUTHWEST 41, BROWNSVILLE PACE 14: At Pharr, the Javelinas cruised to a victory behind the scoring punch of Justin Corona.
Corona, Andrew Becerra and Luis Flores ignited the running attack for a 27-7 lead, despite some drops by Southwest.
“Our kids played well,” Southwest coach Reyes s aid. “We’re not satisfied with our performance; we know we could do better. But I’m glad we didn’t break.”