Westlake dominates North Shore to advance to state finals

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

KATY, TEXAS (December 14, 2024)   In a highly anticipated matchup, the Westlake Chaparrals defeated the North Shore Mustangs 28-10 in the Texas high school football semifinals on Saturday. With over 5,000 fans in attendance, the game showcased intense action from the first kickoff to the final whistle.

North Shore started strong, putting the first points on the board with a 25-yard field goal by Daniel Cruz Sanchez midway through the first quarter. But Westlake quickly responded. Elijah Clark broke free for a 49-yard touchdown run, followed by a successful extra point from Nolan Bartley, giving Westlake a 7-3 lead.

Westlake took control late in the first quarter. Rees Wise connected with Evan Kolander for a 31-yard touchdown pass, extending the lead to 14-3. Their dominance continued into the second quarter as Wise found another receiver in the end zone, pushing the score to 21-3.

North Shore tried to rally late in the first half. Quarterback Kaleb Bailey threw a 12-yard touchdown pass to Quanell Farrahkan Jr., narrowing the gap to 21-10 before halftime.

Westlake's defense shut down North Shore in the second half, forcing turnovers and keeping their offense in check. Wise added his third touchdown pass of the game early in the third quarter, a 19-yard strike to Grady Bartlett, putting the game out of reach at 28-10.

Despite moments of promise, North Shore struggled to match Westlake’s consistency. Defensive standouts like Elliott Schaper delivered key sacks, and Westlake's offense capitalized on nearly every opportunity.

The Chaparrals now advance to the Texas state championship, aiming to cap their season with a title. For North Shore, it’s a tough end to a strong season. 

Kilgore downs La Vernia in rainy matchup to advance to state finals

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly

Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

NEW CANEY, TEXAS (December 13, 2024) Kilgore High School came out on top with a commanding 38-13 victory over La Vernia in a rainy showdown on Friday night. Despite slippery conditions, Kilgore's offense and defense worked together for an impressive win.

The first quarter started slow, with both teams feeling out the wet field. However, Kilgore quickly found their groove. A fumble recovery on La Vernia’s 8-yard line set up Eddie Jimenez’s 22-yard field goal, putting Kilgore up 3-0. Minutes later, Keion Sanders ran in a 29-yard touchdown to increase the lead to 10-0 by the end of the quarter.

Kilgore’s dominance continued in the second quarter. Quarterback Kayson Brooks connected with Miles Applegate for a 30-yard touchdown pass, making it 17-0. La Vernia finally answered just before halftime with a 1-yard rushing touchdown, narrowing the score to 17-7.

In the second half, Kilgore didn’t let up. Isaiah Watters scored twice on the ground, while Brooks delivered another deep touchdown pass, this time to Devin Tinney for 65 yards. Kilgore’s defense stayed tough, with sacks by Applegate and Dré Sanders and a late-game interception by Jakalen Sheffield.

La Vernia added another rushing touchdown in the fourth quarter, but their two-point conversion attempt failed. Kilgore capped off their night with Watters’ second touchdown and Jimenez’s flawless kicking performance, going 5-for-5 on extra points.

Shiner claims victory over Bremond in thrilling state semifinal

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

CYPRESS,  TEXAS (December 12, 2024) The Shiner Comanches kept their championship dreams alive with a commanding win over the Bremond Tigers in the UIL 2A Division 2 football semifinals on Thursday night. Shiner’s balanced offense and tough defense proved too much for Bremond, as they secured a spot in the state championship game.

Shiner's standout performance was powered by their star running back, who continued his dominant season with multiple touchdowns. The team’s offensive line paved the way for a ground game that kept Bremond's defense on their heels throughout the game. Bremond, known for its own powerful running attack, struggled to gain momentum against Shiner’s disciplined defensive front.

The Comanches showcased their trademark physical style early, jumping out to a first-half lead and never looking back. Bremond managed to close the gap briefly in the third quarter, but Shiner responded with a long touchdown drive to put the game out of reach.

For Bremond, their playoff journey ends after a stellar season marked by a 10-game winning streak heading into the semifinals. Despite the loss, standout performances from running back Terrence Scott and wide receiver Tristan Morehead kept the Tigers competitive against one of the state’s top teams.

Shiner, now boasting a 12-game win streak, advances to face the winner of the other semifinal matchup in the state championship. With their powerful run game and championship pedigree, the Comanches look poised for another title run.