The Bobcats Hold a Narrow Advantage over Odessa at the Half

ODESSA, TX — The Central Bobcats (4-4) traveled to Odessa on Friday to play a District 2-6A matchup against the Odessa High Broncos (0-8). After claiming their first district win last weekend, the ‘Cats were hungry for more. Central dominated early, but some bone-headed penalties kept the Bronchos in it. The Bobcats led at the half, 21-20.

After surrendering a touchdown on Odessa High’s first drive, a blocked extra point left the score at 6-0 early. Central immediately responded on the ‘Cats' first offensive possession. Elijah Allen took a pitch to the outside before he cut back towards the middle and outran all defenders to the house. The Bobcats took the lead, 7-6, midway through the first quarter.

The Bobcats’ defense delivered on the next possession. A bad snap put the ball on the turf and Central’s Brian Sandoval jumped on the loose football. It was the first of two Central takeaways and two Sandoval recoveries in the first half. The ‘Cats took advantage a few plays later when Darius Huitt punched the ball into the end zone from 5 yards out.

Later in the 2nd quarter, the Bobcats forced a punt. Colton Hill fielded the punt near the Bobcats’ 45-yard line and returned it for a 55-yard touchdown. Central looked like it would blow this ball game open, but a dumb personal foul penalty kept the ensuing Odessa drive alive. The Bronchos would score to stay in the ball game.

Central had one final opportunity to score before the half. After beginning the drive from Central’s 10-yard line, the ‘Cats steadily drove the football down the field. However, another personal foul after a play was over completely killed the drive. Central settled for a field goal that was missed. In fact, Odessa returned the missed field goal to midfield.

The Bronchos would score again with 22 seconds remaining in the half. Central still leads 21-20, but the Bobcats have to clean up the penalties if they want to take home the district victory. The 3rd quarter begins shortly.