Anahuac Panthers Rally Past Kirbyville Wildcats, 35-14

By Sharisa Nelson

The Anahuac Panthers put together a strong performance Friday, October 2nd, as they hosted the Kirbyville Wildcats and came away with a convincing 35-14 victory.

Anahuac wasted no time getting on the scoreboard. #3 Treyson Richardson opened the game with an explosive 85-yard kickoff return for a touchdown, giving the Panthers an early spark. Richardson is a sophomore running back and defensive back.

The Panthers held a 7-6 advantage after the opening quarter, but Kirbyville answered with eight points in the second quarter to take a 14-7 lead into halftime. Anahuac came out of the locker room ready to respond, scoring seven points in the third quarter before erupting for 21 points in the fourth to pull away for the 35-14 win.

Leading the Panthers’ rushing attack was #0 Jaytwan Dowdye, who carried the ball 15 times for 132 yards and three touchdowns. Dowdye’s biggest play came in the fourth quarter when he broke loose for a 71-yard touchdown run, putting Anahuac ahead 28-14. The sophomore running back and defensive back provided a spark for the Panthers throughout the night.

#4 Darius Richardson also delivered a big night on the ground, rushing eight times for 68 yards and a touchdown. His scoring run came with just 1:48 remaining in the game. Richardson broke free for a 41-yard explosive run down the visitor sideline, barreling through a defender at the 5-yard line before reaching the end zone and putting the finishing touches on the Panthers’ 35-14 victory. The senior is listed as a running back and defensive lineman for Anahuac.

At quarterback, #7 Braydon Sutch completed 8 of 17 passes for 85 yards and had two interceptions. The senior quarterback and defensive back helped direct an Anahuac offense that found its rhythm late in the contest.

#2 Darion Williams led the Panthers’ receiving corps with five catches for 61 yards. Williams, a senior wide receiver and defensive back, provided Sutch with a dependable target throughout the game.

#10 Carter Rivon added one reception for 18 yards. Rivon is a sophomore wide receiver and defensive back.

Special teams also played an important role in the victory. #9 AJ Munoz was perfect on his extra-point attempts, going 5-for-5, while also doing a great job on kickoffs and consistently placing the ball where the Panthers needed it. Munoz is a sophomore quarterback and defensive back.

The Panthers’ 21-point fourth quarter sealed the victory and gave Anahuac plenty of momentum heading into its next district matchup.

Anahuac will return to the road on Friday, October 9th, when the Panthers travel to Buna to take on the Cougars. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 pm.