Historic Pride

By Paul Gaudette on Tuesday, November 23, 2021
  • The Dublin Lions (above) raise up fingers during the school song moments after claiming the Area championship title for the first time in school history. Players Christian Ramirez and Cooper Pickett run to each other and shout in celebration. Paul Gaudette | Citizen staff photo
    The Dublin Lions (above) raise up fingers during the school song moments after claiming the Area championship title for the first time in school history. Players Christian Ramirez and Cooper Pickett run to each other and shout in celebration. Paul Gaudette | Citizen staff photo
  • Historic Pride
    Historic Pride
  • Dublin Lion Cooper Hubble tackles a Palmer Bulldog while Tyler Harrell, Javier Parra and Colton Moore swing in to assist. Paul Gaudette | Citizen staff photo
    Dublin Lion Cooper Hubble tackles a Palmer Bulldog while Tyler Harrell, Javier Parra and Colton Moore swing in to assist. Paul Gaudette | Citizen staff photo

    Lions claim Area title

    Dublin Lions are entering the third round of playoffs for the first time in school history after defeating the Palmer Bulldogs 41-35 Friday night in Joshua.

    Head Coach Greg Harcastle reported that the team previously made it to Regionals in the 1930’s and 1964, but the shorter playoff schedule moved straight from district to Regionals without an Area division.

    “It’s been a great experience,” Hardcastle said of the playoff run so far. “The coaches have done a great job getting kids prepared every week. The kids have shown a lot of grit and determination. They just keep fighting and battling.”

    Lions fans, who traveled to Joshua in big numbers got to see this fight throughout the whole game but particularly in the second half when Palmer started creeping its side of the score up.

    “We made some plays when we had to,” Hardcastle said. “As they got within one score, we’d answer and extend the lead.”

    Hardcastle also praised the defensive line for putting pressure on the quarterback, adding that the Lions had the most sacks they’ve had all season Friday night.

    Christian Ramirez had 142 yards of receiving, bringing in two touchdowns; Tyler Harrell received for 98, and brought in a TD; Dalan Rasberry score two in 104 yards of receiving and Cooper brought in a TD with 62 yards of receiving. Ramirez also went five for five in PAT kicks and Chris Teten passed for 406 yards.

    The Lions will face the 12-0 Gunter Tigers this Friday at 2 p.m. at Pennington Field in Bedford.

    Hardcastle said he’s been making sure the Lions go into the game with the right attitude.

    “We told the team [Monday] morning, It’s not that we have to play the Gunter Tigers; it that the Gunter Tigers have to play us,” he said.

    Hardcastle invites Lions fans to make the trip to see the Lions play at an unusual time in a great venue. Tickets will be $5 at the gate with no charge for parking. Lions will be the visiting team so their stands are on the south side.

    “The fans were great, and the support was great Friday,” Hardcastle said. “Keep coming out and being loud.”