KARNES CITY – Despite losing to their rivals the Kenedy Lions the week before, the Karnes City Badgers looked to get back on track in their home opener on Friday night. Opposing them were the Marion Bulldogs, who had defeated Karnes City’s district rival Poth in their season opener. In a close, defensive battle, both teams refused to yield an inch. When the smoke cleared, however, the Badgers emerged victorious as they outlasted the Bulldogs in the second half and claimed a decisive 13-7 win to even their 2012 record at 1-1. “The kids came out and played with a great deal of intensity and made some plays,” said Karnes City head coach Jim Wood.

The only scoring in the first half came with 3:09 to go in the second quarter from a punt return by Karnes City Jr. WR Dylan Lopez, who scored from 29 yards away. The ensuing PAT by Sr. RB John Garcia found its’ mark, giving the Badgers a 7-0 that would last through halftime and the entire third quarter. The Bulldogs tied things up with 11:06 on the clock in the fourth quarter thanks to a 45-yard interception return for a touchdown, followed by the extra point. After a long fourth quarter, the Badgers managed to land the proverbial knockout punch as Lopez, lining up at QB, scored on a 35-yard run with just 39 seconds to play in the game. Despite the missed kick, the score of 13-7 was enough as time expired to give the Badgers the victory. “We ran a quarterback sneak to get the first down, and it went past the first level, the second level then went the distance,” said Wood. “It was really a crazy play. It was executed well by everyone.”

During the game, the Badgers gained 110 yards of total offense, with 104 yards rushing over 20 carries and six yards passing over three completions. The Bulldogs were held to 98 yards of total offense, with 63 yards rushing over 26 carries and 35 yards passing over five completions. Penalties were minimal as both teams were flagged five times, Karnes City for 35 total yards and Marion for 25 total yards.

This week, the Badgers will host the Randolph Ro-Hawks, who Wood acknowledged as a tough opponent. “We’re still going to stress fundamentals,” said Wood. “We’re gonna prepare and try to contain Randolph’s athletes. We’ve got to be able to move the ball on offense.” Kickoff in Karnes City is set for Friday, September 14 at 7:30 p.m.