The freshman football team set the tone for this season with a 36-14 win over the Austin Panthers Aug. 27.

The game started off a little slow.The first quarter was scoreless. As the second quarter rolled around, both teams put up 14 points on the board, going into the second half a tied ball game. The team was lead by quarterback Orlando Hernandez, running back Edgar Silva and defensive tackle Hector Flores.

Hernandez started off this season throwing for two touchdowns and 115 passing yards.

“We started off a little slow only putting up 14 points in the first half. But all the hard work we put in during the summer just gave us that edge to pull through and take the game in the second half,” Hernandez said.

Running back Edgar Silva’s rushed for three touchdowns and 195 rushing yards.

“I couldn’t be more proud of our offensive linemen. They opened up huge holes for myself and the other running backs to run through. It was a great start to our season, and now that momentum is on our side, I believe we’re gonna keep rolling,”Silva.

On the defensive side of the ball, defensive tackle Hector Flores made a statement. Flores had nine total tackles, a forced fumble, and four tackles for loss.

“Defense played lights out the second half only allowing 31 yards. It was a little overwhelming being our first high school game, but we showed why our defense is going to be the base of our team,” Flores said.

The overall defensive performance was rather satisfying only allowing 79 yards on the ground and 29 through the air.

The Highlanders next game will take place Thursday night at 5:30 p.m against the Andress Eagles at Andress High School.

By Isaac Ybarra