On September 8, 2023, the Judson Rockets (0-3) fell to the Weiss Wolves (3-0) at home in their first district game, 21-10.
This game served as Middle School Night for the Woodlake Wildcats and Judson Jaguars.
The first quarter started with a bang when the Wolves’ kickoff return made it all the way to the end zone, putting the Wolves up 7-0 with only fourteen seconds on the clock in the first quarter. Senior Micheal Avery handled the Rockets’ field goal return, putting the ball on the 30-yard line. The Rockets did well to use the momentum of that play to complete a first down. After multiple unsuccessful attempts to try and gain yardage, the Rockets opted to punt the ball to the Wolves. The defense did its job holding the Wolves back, and after a few incomplete passes by the Wolves, the Rockets regained possession. Senior Nathaniel Stanley made some big plays to get the Rockets to the original line of scrimmage, and the first down was completed by fellow senior Michael Avery. With a beautiful throw by junior Elijah Favela and a catch by senior Kashif Tibbs at the nine-yard line, the Rockets were rolling. Favela broke through Weiss’ defense to walk into the end zone and tie the Wolves 7-7. The Rockets defense outlasted the Wolves to end the quarter 7-7.
The second quarter began with the Rockets on offense and throughout the quarter there were several opportunities for the Wolves to score, yet they weren’t able to convert. The second quarter was highlighted by multiple yellow flags, and neither team was able to score. The second quarter ended 7-7, with both teams looking to improve their plays going into halftime.
Once again the Wolves came out of the locker room fired up and ran through the Rockets’ defense into the end zone, putting them up 14-7. The Rockets were put in many positions to score but were unsuccessful. The Rockets’ defense managed to keep the Wolves from scoring, helping them regain possession. With a large gain by Senior Deshaun Perro, the momentum shifted in the Rockets’ favor, but after an interception was thrown, the Wolves regained possession of the ball. The defense played a huge factor in getting the ball to the Rockets and after many attempts to get the ball into the end zone, the Rockets opted to attempt a field goal. This field goal, by Senior Douglas Tolliver, improved the score 14-10. Weiss’ offense was not able to break through into the end zone, and the third quarter ended 14-10.
The fourth quarter went back and forth with the Rockets and Wolves both unable to score a touchdown. After an injury to a Rocket, the entire atmosphere of the game shifted. The Wolves maintained possession after the play and scored a touchdown putting them in the lead 21-10.
The Rockets (0-3) will face off against the Hutto Hippos at home, in the fourth game of the season on Thursday, September 14th. The theme for next week’s game is Hawaiian. Come cheer on the Rockets, Luau style.