KEVIN NARRO | Staff Writer
LYFORD — The Lyford Bulldogs will look for their first district win when they host Falfurrias tonight at 7:30. Lyford will hit their home field with a little pep in their step, as the Dogs have not had a home game since their week one win against Santa Rosa.
Lyford is looking to get back on the right track after a 2-0 start the Dogs have dropped their last two games against some sturdy competition in Raymondville and George West.
“We have had a rough few weeks, but we are working on getting better each day,” senior wide out Joaquin Gonzales said.
Gonzales has been a key weapon for the Bulldogs this season. Lyford entered the year in need of a playmaker and it is safe to say the Dogs have their man in Gonzales.
“I have known Cayleb (Klostermann) for a while now, he was on the varsity last year and all summer we worked on routes and worked on our chemistry over the summer and I’m his go to guy and we have built a strong relationship.”
Klostermann is no stranger to Lyford football or the team’s expectations. His older brother Layne who graduated last year played receiver and quarterback. Layne has kept in touch with his younger brother while he is away at college.
“We face time and catch up on things,” Cayleb said. “He taught me a few things; it’s just new for me this year to be the starting quarterback.”
The sophomore signal caller has taken the next step as the Lyford QB by becoming more vocal on the field and has a strong grasp of the offense.
“I have gained confidence, and I have become more vocal with the guys, like me doing an interview if I were to do that last year it would scare me, but not anymore.”
Through the first four games, Cayleb provided a balanced attack. He has thrown for 264 yards and has thrown for three scores, while running for 159 yards and one touchdown.
Despite the 0-1 start to district, there is plenty of optimism for the Bulldogs going forward. At this time last year, Lyford was 1-3 and wound up winning a district and bi-district title.
“Our district went from five teams to eight with the realignment,” said Lyford coach Israel Gonzalez. “We added some pretty tough teams to our district, it is a meat grinder. We have our work cut out for us and we are a young team. The key for us is to stay healthy and to compete each week.”