Coahulla Creek bounced back in a big way Friday night, relying on a dominant defensive performance to shut out Murray County and earn a hard-fought 3-0 victory. The shut out marked the Colts 2nd this season – the first time in program history they have recorded multiple shut outs in a single season.
The Colts (3-3, 1-2) entered the game determined to respond after their previous loss to Sonoraville. That mindset showed throughout the night as Coahulla Creek stayed focused, played together and refused to let Murray County find the end zone.
The only points of the game came just before halftime, when Luis Cardoso connected on a field goal to take a 3-0 lead right before halftime. From there, the defense took over and held Murray County scoreless for the remainder of the game.
The Colts’ defense consistently disrupted the Murray County offense. Diego Munguia recorded four tackles for loss, while Luke Turner added three tackles for loss, helping keep the opposing offense from getting into a rhythm.
Munguia said the defense’s success came from everyone trusting one another and doing their jobs.
“I think what clicked for us was everyone doing their job and trusting each other. We stayed locked in, communicated, and followed the game plan our coaches gave us.”
That teamwork was especially important in a game where every possession mattered.
The biggest defensive play came in the final minute when Brandon Manis intercepted a pass, sealing the victory for the Colts. Manis said he felt confident the ball was coming his way on the final play.
“I knew the ball was coming to me on that final play. My mindset was if the ball was in the air it was mine.”
Manis also said the team came into the game with a combination of confidence and determination after the previous loss.
“Coming into the game we were humble but confident. I felt we were hungry to get back on track and fix our mistakes.”
The Colts’ sideline remained energetic throughout the defensive battle, even as the score stayed low. Manis credited the team’s camaraderie and dedication for keeping everyone engaged.
Munguia also gave credit to the Coahulla Creek students and fans who packed the stands and continued to provide energy throughout the game.
Offensively, Fisher Blankenship completed 8 of 17 passes for 73 yards, while Tyler Douglas led the rushing attack with 37 yards on 13 carries. Silas Pledger also made an impact in the passing game, catching four passes for 35 yards.
But on this night, it was the defense that made the difference.
Turner said the team played with a chip on its shoulder following the Sonoraville loss, knowing that a win over Murray County would help put the Colts back in the playoff race.
“Just a chip on our shoulder after the loss to Sonoraville and just knowing that if we beat Murray we’re back in the playoff run.”
Turner said the defense’s biggest key was playing together instead of trying to make individual plays.
“What really clicked was we started to play together. No one was playing selfish.”
That mentality was evident as Coahulla Creek held Murray County to zero points, finishing the night with a defensive performance that could provide plenty of confidence moving forward.
With the victory, the Colts showed that they can win games in different ways. After putting up points in previous games, Coahulla Creek proved Friday that its defense can also carry the team when the offense is facing a tough night.
For a team with its sights set on the playoffs, the shutout was more than just another win. It was a statement that the Colts are still fighting, still believing and still pushing toward the postseason.
Article written by Brinkley Bennett