In a highly anticipated home opener, the Bandera Bulldogs broke in their new turf with a hard-fought 21-17 victory over the Ingram Tom Moore Warriors. The Bulldogs got off to a quick start and held on with a clutch defensive effort to secure the win in front of an energetic home crowd.
The Bulldogs wasted no time putting points on the new scoreboard. Just three plays into the game, quarterback Dalton Parks launched a deep pass to Jeffry Thomas, who streaked 95 yards for the opening touchdown. The explosive play set the tone for a dominant first quarter on offense.
Parks, who finished the night with 207 total yards, was a dual-threat for the Warriors’ defense. In addition to his touchdown pass, he added 60 yards on the ground, while also extending plays with his legs. Thomas was the beneficiary of Parks’ big arm, hauling in 121 receiving yards and the long touchdown.
The Bulldogs’ offensive line showed up to play in a big way, controlling the line of scrimmage and paving the way for the running game. Their physical play led to the team’s two other scoring drives, both on the ground. The final touchdown of the first quarter came on a 1-yard run from Jake Cesta, capping off an exciting and productive start for the Bandera offense. As the game wore on, the Bulldogs’ defense was tested but proved they were up to the challenge.
They flew around the field, making crucial plays when it mattered most. Their effort was highlighted by two key takeaways: a fumble recovery and an interception by Jaymin Klein, both of which helped halt Ingram’s comeback efforts. The Bulldogs special teams squad also got into the action with recovering a muffed punt, giving the offense another opportunity to put points on the board.
Ultimately, the game came down to one final defensive stand. The Bulldogs’ defense rose to the occasion, standing strong on their home turf and defending their lead in the game’s final minutes to seal the victory.
The win marks a historic debut on Bandera’s new home field and a promising start to the season for the Bandera Bulldogs. They will look to build on this momentum in their next matchup this upcoming Friday, Sept. 12, when they travel to Lytle, to take on the Lytle Pirates.
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