By Kathya Anguiano
For Head Coach Neal LaHue, going from an 0-3 start last year to a 3-0 start this year has been a huge turnaround for the varsity football team. The seven-year coach noted the last playoffs run for the Riders was two years ago, ending in a defeat from Bowie. Friday’s game, a rematch for the Riders, ended in another defeat, however coach is still very proud of them.
“I am very proud of my team this year, I thought we played a good team and we played hard. We didn’t make some plays on the second half that we wanted but we learn from our mistakes and we’re ready for our first district game against Lee this weekend,” LaHue said.
The Rough Riders’ commitment for their football team both off and on season has really showed and paid off.
“This year’s quarterbacks have done an awesome job. Jacob Preciado (junior) and Rodderick Owens (junior) have been great on offense. Frank Barnes is a great running back and Carl Whitley is an awesome receiver. Jeffrey Bryson is great defense and Jonathan Leos is an awesome linebacker. Jakorey Davis is a good secondary and Roy Hodge is a great D-line,” Coach LaHue said.
In Friday’s game, Whitley (23) caught the first touchdown pass Preciado (15) threw the ball all the way to the goal line and Whitley was once again the star to catch the last touchdown on the fourth down.
Overall Friday’s game ended up 20-31, having the Rough Riders be 3-1 as they head into districts. However; they are ready to take the district challenge and make it to the playoffs.