Lions ready to roar after solid scrimmages

By Alonzo Garza
POST-REGISTER

The Lions traveled to Luling for their final scrimmage against the Eagles on Friday, Aug. 22 and proved they are ready for their first game of the regular season.
“Friday’s scrimmage gave us another chance to evaluate our players and see where we need to improve,” Head Coach Troy Moses said. “The starters were able to

get a few more plays in and we also got our first look at game situations.”
The Varsity Lions also played two full quarters without coaches on the field after the scrimmage. They demonstrated offensive and defensive skill against a tough opponent.
The first quarter ended at 13-7 with Lockhart leading after a Lion touchdown and a good kick with 1:24 remaining.
The second quarter started with Luling scoring for a 14-13 lead at the top of the quarter. Lockhart scored another touchdown at 7:51. The kick was good for a score of 14-20. Lion Richard Ybarra scored the last touchdown of the night with 2:55 remaining. The kick was no good for a final score of 14-26.
“Players like Richard Ybarra, Jacob Castillo and TJ Terrazas ran the ball well,” Moses said. “It gives us confidence going into our first game. Right now I feel we have seven or eight backs that can carry the ball and give us what we need.”
The Lion defense kept the Eagles on their toes. They looked eager to hit and be hit throughout the scrimmage and the two additional quarters that were played.
“The Lions’ defense is showing great improvement as they end their pre-season preparation,” Defensive Coordinator Ernie Bustamante said. “With eight defensive starters returning, expectations have risen tremendously. The Lions have taken their defense to a new level, showcasing high-flying, scrappy and tenacious defense against both Cuero and Luling. Both scrimmage opponents are projected to make it to the playoffs this season.”
According to Bustamante, the projected starters on defense will be: strong end Jacob Frey, quick end Zach De La Rosa, strong tackle Denzel Johnson, quick tackle Brandon Bray, inside linebackers Kory Robbins and Stacey Bell, outside linebackers TJ Terrazas and Adam Renteria, strong corner Ricky Rodriguez, free safety Christian Estrada and quick corner Kenny Brite.
“We are extremely excited about kicking off our 2008 season on Friday night,” Bustamante said. “The young men have worked extremely hard for our program, the school and the community. I firmly believe this team is capable of doing some exciting things this season. This team has the talent to take Lockhart to places we haven’t been to in a long time.”
Both Moses and Bustamante are optimistic about the season. They look forward to their first challenge against La Grange.
“Luling has some very good skill positions and it was good for us to see that kind of speed, “ Moses said. “Several of our opponents this year will have the same kind of backs and receivers we saw on Friday night.”
“We hope to build memories these young men will cherish forever,” Bustamante said. “We invite the Lockhart community to join us for the ride…it is going to be a fun ride!”
The Lions will face the Leopards at La Grange on Friday, Aug 29. The game starts at 7:30 p.m. Lion fans are encouraged to attend and cheer on the Lion teams during their first game of the season. Leopard Stadium is located at 820 S. Vail St., La Grange, Texas, 78945.
See you at the game.
agarza@post-register.com