The Dublin stands were filled with big cheers and bigger mums Friday night as the Lions took on the Bowie Jackrabbits for homecoming.
In honor of the event, the scoreboard was lit up with pictures of the recently deceased Richard “Truck” Stevens as a tribute was read in honor of the Dublin Lion, Baylor Bear and Philadelphia Eagle. A celebration of his life is being planned for Dec. 7.
The game started strong for the home team who were first across the goal line but Bowie responded and scored again. The Lions had trouble getting into a rhythm as the ball kept going off sides and a large number of penalties were called. Dublin lost 69-28.
“The kids fought hard,” said head football coach/athletic director Greg Hardcastle. “We did some good things and just when we thought we’re going to gain momentum, the play would get called back.”
Hardcastle remarked Bowie was a much improved team from years past.
“There were a lot of good things we did,” he added. “We’re playing some tough teams; the hope is the challenge will benefit you later on.”
Quarterback Kaden Gaitan passed for 201 yards during the game. DJ Feguson led Dublin in receiving with 96 yards and carried two touchdowns over the goal line. Francisco Garcia also had 62 yards in receiving.
Alonso Moreno led on the defensive side with 16 tackles while Sev Ruiz brought in 6 tackles and a sack. Caige Balvantin also had a sack during the battle.
Jovani Cervantes also completed a TD while Rey Chacon went 2 for 3 in PAT kicks and Alex Teten completed a 2-point conversion.
The Lions make the long drive up Highway 51 Friday, Sept. 27 to face the Lindsay Knights at 7 p.m.
Hardcastle said the offense will be different than previous opponents and the Lions lineup will change due to a couple of injuries.
“We’ll need to make some adjustments,” Hardcastle said. “They mostly run the ball. We’ll have to gear up and stop them.”