The visiting Ysleta Indians were looking to rebound from their game last week against Canutillo coming into Emperor Stadium and keep their postseason hopes alive. The Horizon Scorpions we’re looking to stay undefeated in district play in their quest for a district title. The matchup would be a crossroads for both teams as the 2021 regular season is coming closer to an end.
Horizon jumped on the scoreboard early with a 35yd touchdown run by standout Ernie García to put them up 7-0 in the opening minute. After an Ysleta possession that stalled out, Horizon added to their lead with 27yd touchdown pass from quarterback Jacob Quijas to Orlando Del Valle to put the Scorpions up 14-0 with 4:21 to go in the first quarter.
Ysleta would score in the early moments of the second quarter on a 15yd pass from quarterback Damian Contreras to Jason Martinez to narrow the lead 14-7. The remainder of the quarter would become a defensive matchup between both teams. Ysleta would intercept Horizon at the goal line that momentarily prevented the Scorpions from extending their lead. In the closing seconds they would score on a 2yd run by García. The Scorpions would lead 21-7 at the half.
The third quarter was a continuation of the second quarter as both defenses stood their ground against their opponents Horizon would get an interception of their own to halt a momentum building Ysleta drive. The physicality and competitiveness of the game also went up in the third quarter as both teams were warned by the officials. Horizon would score on a 17yd run by García to extend the lead 28-7. In the closing moments of the third, García would run in for a 12yd run to end the third quarter 35-7.
Horizon would get the games last touchdown on a fumbled snap that was saved by Quijas who scored on a 45yd scamper to the end zone. The final score was 42-7.
Ysleta closes out the season at home next week against Parkland. Horizon travels to Hanks as they continue their hopes for a potential district title showdown against Canutillo in two weeks.
Henry Reyna Reporting