Bulldogs fall to West, set for district play to begin

The Marlin Bulldogs football team traveled to Waco to take on the West Trojans last Friday. Marlin was defeated by West, losing 21-7. 

The first quarter, both teams played even. It was a defensive battle and the game was still scoreless going into the second quarter.

West broke the drought and scored first in the second quarter with a 35-yard touchdown pass to take a 7-0 lead. Marlin tried to answer back on offense but came up short and was forced to punt. 

The offense quickly returned to the field after an interception by Daniel Vallecillos (72). The Bulldogs took advantage of the turnover with a 4-yard touchdown run by Ty’raun Bell (5) to tie the game at 7. The Bulldog defense came back on the field and held the Trojans in check, forcing a punt. Marlins offense returned to the field and put together a small drive aided by a 28-yard run by Bell. Sadly, they did not go much further and had to punt. 

West tried to complete a last minute scoring drive before halftime, but Marlin held strong and forced the Trojans to punt. The game stayed tied at 7 going into halftime. 

Marlin had very little to cheer for the rest of the game. West completely shut the Bulldogs out in the second half, scoring 14 unanswered points to win the game 21-7. Roderick Suiters had a tough game, throwing for 109 yards and two interceptions, along with rushing for 24 yards. Ty’raun Bell was still very productive, rushing for 71 yards and a touchdown. With this loss, the Bulldogs have a record of 2-3. 

The Bulldogs will not be playing this week as it will be their bye week. Next up for Marlin will be a neutral site game against the Crawford Pirates. The game will be on Friday, Oct. 11, at Robinson High School and kick off is set for 7:30 p.m.