Ballinger Finds Second-Half Magic Again, Rallies Past New Home

BALLINGER, TX — The Ballinger Bearcats’ football season has been defined by second-half comebacks, and they did it again Friday in their playoff opener against New Home.

Trailing 20-10 at halftime, Ballinger owned the second half and rallied for a 30-20 win on its home field at Bearcat Stadium.

It was the fourth time this season Ballinger won after being behind at halftime.

Malachi Bentley powered the Bearcats' offense with 23 carries for 161 yards.

Hunter Kresta intercepted a pass on New Home’s final drive to put the finishing touches on the Bearcats’ stellar defensive showing. They forced four turnovers — two interceptions and two fumble recoveries — and held New Home to only three first downs in the second half.

It was the Bearcats’ first playoff win since 2021 as they improved their record to 8-3. Ballinger advances to play Tulia (7-3) or Sanford-Fritch (3-7) next week in the area round.

Ballinger was the No. 3 seed out of District 4-2A, while New Home was the No. 2 seed from District 3-2A, but the Bearcats liked their chances on their home field.

Ballinger has enjoyed a remarkable turnaround this season after going 3-7 last year and finishing in last place in its district.

The Bearcats started 7-1 this year before back-to-back one-point losses prevented them from winning a district title.

They shook off those losses, however, and now have a chance to bring home their first area-round title since 2002. The time and location for next week’s game haven’t been finalized yet.

Ballinger also helped represent District 4-2A, which brought home three playoff trophies this weekend. Ozona stunned No. 7 Post, while Forsan beat Abernathy. Surprisingly, the only team that lost was district champion Sonora.

This story will be updated.