Panthers Unable to Score Against Dexter

By John Earp

This past Friday in Panther Stadium, the JHS Varsity Football Team hosted the Dexter Demons for their season opener. Dexter, which is a 3A team, is usually an excellent team and a tough opponent. This last Friday they were indeed the better team in every way. The Panthers struggled on offense and on defense, and disappointingly, were unable to score during the game.

With 5:21 remaining in the first period, the Demons had their first touchdown with a quarterback keeper from the 3-yard line, which was followed up with a successful two-point conversion. The Panthers’ second offensive drive was ineffectual as well. The Demons gained another touchdown with a couple of minutes later, also followed by a successful two-point conversion. With 2:51 remaining in the first quarter, Dexter led 16-0. It was shaping up to be a long night for the Panthers.

The Demons were quick to score in the second quarter as well. With 11:05 remaining in the second quarter, they led 24-0. The Panthers remained ineffective on offensive and defense. With 3:40 left in the second quarter, Dexter led 32-0. With just 8 seconds remaining before halftime, the Dexter quarterback took a keeper into the end zone for Dexter for their fifth unanswered touchdown of the night. At halftime, the score was 39-0.

The Demons’ momentum slowed significantly in the third period, probably due to Dexter playing their second string, though the Panthers still weren’t able to get anything going. At the end of the third, Dexter led 46-0. The game was mercy ruled with 1:42 remaining in the fourth quarter. The final score as 52-0.

The Panthers are scheduled to play the Santa Rosa Lions (1-0) this Friday night here in Jal. The Lions are currently ranked #1 in 2A in the state, having beaten Texico 22-15 at home last Friday. The Panthers are ranked #4 in 2A in the state, according to MaxPreps.