Last Friday, the Nacogdoches Dragons defeated the Palestine Wildcats 34-17. The Dragons started strong scoring multiple touchdowns in the first half of the game and continuing on to gain 422 total yards on the Wildcats.
Senior quarterback, Tyren Matthews, had 94 passing yards during the game. Matthews also rushed for 128 yards over 17 carries. Junior, Trae Page, had 12 carries for 84 rushing yards while sophomore, RJ Whitaker had 61 rushing yards over five carries.
Halftime festivities included performances by the Palestine band and drill team. The Golden Dragon Band performed for the drill team and twirlers before showcasing the first half of their UIL drill.
The football team followed up the second half of the game with good defensive plays that allowed the team to power through to a win.
The Dragons had a total of 99 receiving yards against the Wildcats with leading receiver junior, Micah Lockett, catching four receptions for 58 yards. Leading the team in sacks was junior, Joel Jones. Senior, Quin’charves Calhoun, and sophomore, Jabrandon Rushing, both had interceptions for the night. Senior, Chance Clayton is credited with a fumble recovery.
The season’s second game for the Dragons will take place on Sept. 6 against their rivals, the Lufkin Panthers, at Abe Martin Stadium in Lufkin.
