RGVSPORTS.COM
For a second straight year, Edinburg Vela squeaked by Rio Grande City.
Robert Guerra scored on a short run to pull ahead in the fourth quarter, and the SaberCats were able to hang on to record a 27-26 win Thursday at Cats Stadium in Edinburg.
Last year, Vela won 21-20.
“I think our kids were resilient,” SaberCats coach Michael Salinas said. “We know big games are won one play, one possession, one quarter at a time. And fortunately for us, the ball went our way.”
Guerra’s short run put Vela (9-0 overall, 5-0 in district) ahead for good after trailing 26-21 going into the fourth quarter. The Rattlers (3-5, 1-3) stopped the ensuing two-point conversion. And with 1:43 to play, they attempted a field goal that appeared good but was called back due to Salinas calling for timeout.
On their second attempt, RGC missed.
“They’re a tough bunch,” Salinas said. “I think Rio and Coach (Carlos) Longoria did a good job of preparing their kids to play. … I think they’re a better football team than their record indicates. We’re just fortunate that our kids stayed the course and were even-keeled.”
The SaberCats have a bye next week before closing out the regular season against Mission Veterans.
CLASS 6A
MISSION HIGH 28, McALLEN ROWE 18: At Mission High, Eagles quarterback Rudy Treviño scored on a quarterback keeper and also threw a touchdown pass to William Arias, helping Mission nab a key win against McAllen Rowe.
Caleb Oviedo scored on the ground for Mission, which also picked up two safeties.
Mission improves to 4-4 overall and 2-2 in District 30-6A. Rowe, playing its first game since coach Paul Reyes announced his resignation on Tuesday, fell to 2-6 overall, 1-3 in district.
HARLINGEN HIGH 52, BROWNSVILLE VETERANS MEMORIAL 28: At Brownsville, the Chargers didn’t get their usually high-powered offense going and fell behind early in their District 32-6A at Sams Memorial Stadium.
Harlingen High’s defense forced three turnovers and Leo Tienda scored four touchdowns to lead the way for the Cardinals.