The 2022 Dublin Lions claimed their first victory of the season in a 24-21 nailbiter against the Tigers in Anson Friday night.
Coach Greg Hardcastle reported the Dublin boys had missed out on some opportunities earlier in the game but took hold of a major one when it counted most.
The score was 21-17 in the Tigers’ favor after Dublin opted for field goal in the third quarter.
Anson was heading toward the goal line in the fourth when Dublin stopped them from getting within striking distance, forcing a field goal attempt that failed.
The Lions got control and scored a TD and point after with eight seconds left in the game.
Quarterback Chris Teten had 244 yards in passing, 60 yards in rushing and brought in two touchdowns.
Sev Ruiz completed the other TD and led in receiving with 56 yards.
Dalan Rasberry and Kyson Gilman had 54 and 41 yards in receiving respectively.
Aidan Hernandez contributed 6 points with the field goal and successful PAT kicks.
Jacen Hines led in tackles with 12, followed by Cameron Patton who had nine (and five sacks) and Hernandez and Noah Thompson, who each had eight.
“The guys showed a lot of resilience and kept after it,” Hardcastle said. “We played much better defensively in the second half.”
Hardcastle also wanted to brag that the Lions only racking up about 10 yard in penalties throughout the game while they were able to capitalize on some calls against Anson.
“We still have a lot of things to work on,” said the coach. “We’ve got to keep working on fundamentals. We’ve got a lot of young guys on the team.”
The Lions return hom Friday for a 7 p.m. kick-off against Brady.
Hardcastle expects some competition as Brady looks to get their first win after facing some tough foes.
The school is in transition after graduating some of their defensive linemen, but Brady is a known opponent to Dublin after facing them for the past four years.
“I know they’re hungry for that first win,” Hardcastle said. “We’ve got to be prepared for them.”
Donations will be taken during the game for both schools’ Fellowship of Christian Athletes programs.
Each school will be taking donations for its own program and after the money is counted, the winner will get bragging rights and a trophy, which will be up for grabs again. when the Dublin Lions face Brady next year.