Apaches rout Austin Crockett 42-8

GONZALES — Leave no doubt.
The Gonzales Apaches (1-1) had a dominant performance in their home opener, taking down the Austin Crockett Cougars 42-8 at home. The team leaned on their running game and their defense to frustrate and overpower the Cougars for their first win of the season.
The game was won when:
Austin-Crockett punted the ball on their first offensive drive in the second half.
Other than the two penalties in the first half, the Apaches defense didn’t give up a first down until 11:27 left in the fourth quarter. That would also be Austin-Crockett’s lone scoring drive of the night, a seven-yard play-action pass from backup quarterback John Zuniga to Jeremiah Moore.
Turning point:
The kickoff recovery late in the first half was a huge turning point for the Apaches. Already up 21-0 with 4:08 left in the half, Daniel Cruz kicked the ball off, aiming at one of the corners of the end zone as to not allow a big return. Austin Crockett let the ball roll, thinking it would go out of bounds, but the ball would land on their own 4-yard line. In a heads up play, Gonzales’ (14) downed the ball on the four, giving the Apaches a 1st-and-goal. James Martinez would punch it in, giving the team a 28-0 lead. Gonzales would score once more to end the half up 35-0.
Top player(s):
Although there are many names you can choose from, whether it’s James Martinez, Elijah Holiday, Dillen Ramos or any of the other running backs who gashed the Cougars’ defense, or a defensive front that pressured quarterback Patrick Ray. Head coach Kodi Crane touted the offensive line as a big reason why the running backs were able to get that open on their runs.
Big picture:
The injury bug took out an offensive line at the half and the Apaches were without star defensive tackle Trent Wilkerson tonight. A 42-8 rout indicates there’s depth on both lines, but head coach Kodi Crane knows that the team still has room for improvement, especially on pre-snap and post-snap penalties.
What’s next:
Gonzales has their final home game before the district season next Friday. Homecoming night will be celebrated at Apache Field when the Apaches host Yoakum (1-1) who tonight beat #4 Cuero 30-20. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. After next week, Gonzales will go on a four-game road trip.