- April 18, 2024
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Matanzas' Dakwon Evans runs a quarterback keeper early in the game. Photo by Christine Rodenbaugh
Matanzas players run onto the field. Photo by Christine Rodenbaugh.
One week after scoring 42 points in its Kickoff Classic victory, the young Matanzas High football team discovered it still has a lot of work to do.
St. Augustine Menendez took advantage of five Pirates turnovers to shut out Matanzas 29-0 in the season opener for both teams Friday, Aug. 27, at Menendez's Veterans Stadium.
Matanzas quarterbacks Dakwon Evans and Bryce Petlett struggled against an aggressive Falcons defense, combining to throw three interceptions. Terrell Newsome had two interceptions for the Falcons. His 45-yard pick-6 closed out the scoring late in the game.
The Pirates turned the ball over three times in the first half but were still in striking distance at halftime, trailing 15-0. But their struggles continued in the second half.
Evans was the Pirates' most effective offensive weapon, rushing for 128 yards, including a 27-yard run at the end of the third quarter.
Tabias Brown scored two touchdowns for the Falcons, who gave first-year head coach Matt Potak a victory in his regular-season debut.
Both teams were playing without their star players. Matanzas receiver Noah Cundiff missed the game with a foot injury, while Menendez quarterback King Benford was out with a knee injury.
The Pirates travel to Atlantic on Sept. 3. The Sharks were also shut out in their season opener, falling to New Smyrna Beach 22-0.
