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UIL 3A D1 State Final: Lorena shuts down previously undefeated Brock
"I chose y'all. You didn't choose me. I chose to be your coach," Lorena head coach Ray Biles told his athletes in a post-game press conference after a 35-18 victory over the Brock Eagles. The win sealed Lorena's first state championship in over 30 years. Despite every effort to make a comeback late in the fourth quarter, Brock was unable to pull ahead and get within a comfortable striking distance against Lorena. You can find photos from the game on our instant gallery. To read the recap from the game, become a VYPE Insider today!
Fans saw a defensive showdown in the first half of the game as Lorena took a quick 14-0 lead over the Brock Eagles. The Leopards first two touchdowns both came from great runs by Rhett Hanson who was later named the offensive MVP. Kutter Wilson was able to get on the board for Brock early in the second half with a one-yard rush, but the PAT was no good. Throughout the rest of the first half, each defense was able to hold off the other team with great plays and a strong will power to go into the half strong.
Both teams came out explosive in the second half. Hanson was able to score on a one-yard rush for the Leopards before Brock answered back with a four-yard touchdown catch by Nathan Jones. With a failed PAT, Lorena continued to lead 21-12 through the third quarter until Camden Brock caught four-yard touchdown pass to take a strong 28-12 lead. Lorena scored one more time with a five-yard touchdown from Cason Pitts. With a last-ditch effort late in the fourth, Moody found Potts for a Brock touchdown and went on to go for a two-point conversion that ultimately failed.
UIL STATE SEMIFINALS PREVIEW: Gunter vs. Lorena volleyball
After starting the season ranked in the top five for VYPE DFW's Top 10 1A-4A volleyball teams, the Gunter Tigers have more than proven that they belong playing on the biggest stage in Texas High School Volleyball. All season, the Tigers have battled to get to the UIL State Volleyball Tournament and on Thursday they face-off in a highly anticipated match against Lorena with the hopes of making it to the UIL State Championship finale. Before the first serve is over the net, VYPE DFW breaks down what fans should expect in this semi-final pairing.
To read this UIL State Semifinal preview, become a VYPE Insider today!
Gunter Tigers (36-7, 14-0)
This season, the Lady Tigers posted a perfect district record (14-0). Going undefeated to finish in the first-place spot in their district, Gunter defeated the likes of Howe, Pottsboro, Blue Ridge, Bells and more. With a 36-7 overall record, the Lady Tigers have dropped only 19 sets all season. In fact, of their 36 wins this season, 34 have been shutout wins over their opponents.
Gunter has played incredible offense and defense all season. There shouldn't be a slowdown in the state semifinals and fans can expect them to continue to show their muscle on the court. With a strong defense backed by an offense who knows how to consistently score, the Tigers are ready to do whatever it takes to advance to the championship match.
Lorena Leopards (39-4, 14-0)
The Lady Leopards have been showcasing amazing talent all season long. Posting an undefeated district record (14-0) to finish at the top of their district, Lorena can be expected to continue to show the defensive dominance that they have en route to the state tournament. Coming into the semifinals with a 19-game win-streak, the Leopards are looking to shut down the Tigers early and often in order to make it to the finals.
The Leopards have dealt 36 shutouts to their opponents this season. Lorena has what it takes to be a strong opponent and come out on top in this semifinals pairing. Fan can expect the Leopards to play with as much force as possible.
What To Expect:
Once you get to this point of the season, it goes without saying that both teams want to win. A state title appearance is on the line in this match and both teams have fought hard all season to make it to this point. On paper, this should be Lorena's win, but because of that, Gunter is going to come in ready to fight tooth-and-nail in order to prove any naysayers wrong. It's going to be an intense battle from first serve to final point.