Flour Bluff Hornets Overpower McAllen Memorial Mustangs 35-10 in Bi-District Championship
MCALLEN - In a decisive 5A Bi-District championship game at DQ Fan Field, the Flour Bluff Hornets demonstrated their offensive strength to defeat the McAllen Memorial Mustangs 35-10. The Hornets, now boasting a 10-1 record, advance to the Area round of the playoffs, while the Mustangs conclude their season at 7-4.
The game began with both teams showing promise. The Mustangs' defense made key stops, and their offense found early success through the air. Junior quarterback Kane Coy, returning to the field after a three-week absence due to a torn oblique muscle and a fractured wrist, showcased remarkable resilience. Despite playing through significant pain, Coy connected multiple times with junior wide receiver Michael Alanis, who made notable receptions of 52, 32, and 41 yards, amassing 120 yards in the first half alone.
However, turnovers hindered the Mustangs' momentum. A critical fumble recovered by the Hornets led to a touchdown, giving Flour Bluff a 21-10 advantage at halftime. Hornets quarterback Jayden Paluseo was instrumental, throwing multiple touchdown passes, including connections with Cameran Dickson and Andre Mimms.
The second half saw the Mustangs attempting to shift the tide after recovering a Flour Bluff fumble. Despite the opportunity, they were unable to capitalize, turning the ball over on downs following a crucial sack on Coy during a fourth-down play. Coy's determination did not go unnoticed. Head Coach Moses Patterson praised his quarterback's toughness, stating:
"Kane's a trooper. He is the epitome of toughness. He played hurt all night. He'll never admit it to me, but I know it hurts him to throw the ball. He's just a competitor and wants to be out there for his brothers."
Flour Bluff extended their lead as Paluseo continued to connect with his receivers. Dickson finished the evening with three touchdown receptions, and Mimms added two more. The Hornets' balanced attack, combining a potent passing game with effective rushing from Tylor Simpson, proved too formidable for the Mustangs.
Defensively, the Mustangs had standout moments. Nick Luna made significant contributions, including breaking up a potential touchdown pass and securing an interception in the fourth quarter. Dalton Keller recorded a sack on Paluseo, exemplifying the team's unwavering effort.
After the game, Coach Patterson reflected on the season and the contributions of his senior class:
"I'm just incredibly proud of the senior class we have this year. Their leadership throughout the years has been phenomenal. We talk about culture, we talk about foundation, and that goes back to piece by piece, brick by brick. I'm so fortunate to have the seniors that we did have lead us this year. It's tough saying goodbye to them because you're with them for four years. They put in the blood, sweat, tears; everything in workouts. They're all my boys."
Looking ahead, the Mustangs have a strong core of juniors set to return next season, including Coy and Alanis. Patterson expressed optimism about the future:
"We have quite a few juniors coming back next year. The talent that has come through Memorial and the perseverance of these kids—I just can't thank them enough. It's really a family, and I'm just happy to be the head coach."
For the Flour Bluff Hornets, the victory underscores their position as a formidable contender in the playoffs. Quarterback Jayden Paluseo exhibited poise and precision, effectively leading his team's high-powered offense. The Hornets will now prepare to face the winner of the matchup between San Antonio Piper and San Antonio Southwest.
As the season concludes for McAllen Memorial, the team's efforts, particularly under challenging circumstances, have laid a strong foundation for the future. The players' dedication and Coach Patterson's leadership have set the stage for continued growth and success in the coming years.
