KEVIN NARRO | Staff Writer
HARLINGEN—The Harlingen South Hawks notched their first win of the 2018 season in Week 2 and will look to make it two in a row as they host McAllen High in their rubber match tonight at 7 p.m.
“We have had to cram in a couple of days together because it’s a shorter week,” said South Coach Brian Ricci. “On Monday and Tuesday, though they were normal practices for us, we had two really good practices this week and the kids were upbeat, but they know that Fridays win is the past and it’s time to focus on the next task.”
The Hawks have found a rhythm offensively both on the ground and through the air. Senior running back Emilio Quiroz is off back-to-back 100-yard performances and has scored a touchdown in each of his first two games.
His battery mate, Corban Hendrick, has also provided a spark for the Hawks offense. Against PSJA North, Hendrick made key runs and helped move the chains.
The duo of Quiroz and Hendrick has provided the Hawks offense with a balanced attacked, and it is something Ricci is pleased with seeing.
“We actually have three backs that we use and we rotate,” said Ricci. “It allows us to have fresh legs in the game and we are able to play at a faster tempo.”
Last year, the Hawks were able to get the best of McHi in their season opener, this year the Hawks look to do the same as they host the Bulldogs in Week 3.
The looming question is how will the weather fair. There is a 40 percent chance of rain in the area, and the showers could present a problem come kickoff. However, the rain could favor both squads as both teams look to establish the run. McAllen High will lean on Octavian Lewis who led the Bulldog rushing attack against Edinburg North with 27 carries for 68 yards. Lewis provided a walk-off touchdown to beat Edinburg North on the final play from scrimmage in week 2.