The Port Isabel Tarpons were victorious in their latest matchup against the Edcouch-Elsa Yellowjackets on Sept. 22. (Courtesy photo by Juliette Gonzalez-Barajas)
By CONSTANCIO MARTINEZ, JR.
Special to the PRESS
This past Friday, Sept. 22, the Port Isabel Tarpons were on the road as they took on the Edcouch-Elsa [EE] Yellowjackets in a non-district matchup. Last year, the Tarpons got the best of the Yellowjackets in a 31-14 win. This year’s teams were more evenly matched which led to a close and exciting game.
After a 19-yard opening kickoff return by the Yellowjackets, EE started its drive from the 23-yard line. The Tarpon’s “Seawall Defense” got off to a great start as they held the Yellowjackets to zero yards on three plays forcing them to punt.”
Benefiting from a short punt, the Tarpons started its drive from the 46-yard line. Unfortunately, the Tarpons were unable to take advantage of the good field position as the ball was fumbled away on the team’s second play of the game.
The Yellowjackets recovered the loose ball at the Tarpons’ 33-yard line. It took seven plays, but EE finally scored on a four-yard touchdown run. A successful kick gave EE a 7-0 lead with 5:20 left in the first quarter.
The Tarpons returned the kickoff at the 26-yard line, but EE was charged with an unsportsmanlike penalty after the play. Starting from the 41-yard line, the Tarpons managed to pick up first down. Then things started to go south as they got flagged for a holding call. On the next play, the Tarpons’ runner was tackled for a five-yard loss and PI was forced to punt.
After a big punt by PI, EE started their ensuing drive from its three-yard line. The Tarpons’ defense held firm and forced a three-and-out by the Yellowjackets.
PI started the ensuing drive from the Tarpon’s 48-yard line. An 11-yard run by PI Running Back AJ LeBlanc put the Tarpons into Yellowjacket’s territory. Two plays later, PI Running Back Luis Ramos bolted free for a 29-yard run. PI was flagged for a delay of game, but it did not deter the Tarpons as they finished their drive with a four-yard touchdown run by Ramos. The extra point kick went wide left as EE held a 7-6 lead with 7:38 left in the second quarter.
The Yellowjackets got a nice return to its 43-yard line. Facing a 3rd and long, PI’s defensive end, Christopher Gonzalez, pushed his man right unto their quarterback, busting up the play. EE was forced to punt the ball away.
Want the entire story? Pick up a copy of the Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS, or subscribe to our e-Edition by clicking HERE!
Comments