The Eagles showed up big on Thursday night, claiming a 29-7 victory over the Lubbock High Westerners.
“We got a lot to work on, but anytime that we can get the off-season, summer program, two-a-days – get all that work in and get the victory on the first game, that is a big deal to the program,” said head coach Blake Bryant.
The Eagles went to work on their first drive. An 18 yard pass to Derek Odell, setup Bill Bryant for end-zone honors and successful point-after-touchdown by Aaron Rowe provided an early 7-0 lead.
The Westerners attempted to answerback, but the Canyon defense stuffed Lubbock after five plays.
Travis Cosby delivered his second touchdown pass to Juan Garcia, and the score remaining at 13-0 after a missed PAT.
Lubbock attempted another series, but went a quick three and out; though handed the same to Canyon on defense.
Traded series continued until the Eagle took the field with 2:08 remaining in the first half.
Eight plays, including a 12-yard pass to Odell and a 14-yard rush by Thomas Cunningham, placed Canyon in the end-zone on a 25-yard corner route to Odell. A second a missed PAT set the halftime score at 19-0.
During the second half the Eagles crossed the goal-line for the fourth time, while Canyon’s defense prevented Lubbock from earning a single first-down through the third quarter.
The Westerners did manage to put together one successful drive, as Aaron Paulhill broke away for a 25-yard rush for the final 7-29 score.
The comfortable lead built in the first half allowed many second-string players to gain valuable playing time in various positions.
“These kids all work hard. They all accept their role and I am just so proud,” Bryan said. “Any opportunity that we can get we put them in (the game), because they deserve it just as much and they don’t always get that chance.”
