The Cougars Rally for Thrilling 35–21 Homecoming Victory Over Woodside!
What a comeback! The Half Moon Bay Cougars showed their determination and resilience Friday night, rallying from a 21–7 second-half deficit to defeat Woodside 35–21. After trailing by two touchdowns in the third quarter, HMB came roaring back, scoring 28 unanswered points, including 21 in the fourth quarter, to secure another exciting victory.
Joedoln Flores led the Cougar rushing attack with 112 yards and two touchdowns on 22 carries, including a 33-yard touchdown run to seal the victory. Quarterback Paxton Holden completed 5 of 9 passes for 101 yards and a touchdown, connecting with Luke Pimentel for a huge 42-yard touchdown pass that tied the game at 21 in the fourth quarter. Holden also added a three-yard rushing touchdown to give HMB the lead, while Brandon Melo contributed 35 rushing yards and a touchdown of his own.
The Cougar defense stepped up when it mattered most, shutting out Woodside in the fourth quarter and forcing three turnovers during the game, including an interception and two recovered fumbles. Auggie Lujan helped lead the defensive effort with four tackles and four assists, while Tahlon Davis added three tackles and four assists. The Cougars held Woodside to just 193 total yards, including 85 passing yards.
The Cougars finished with 295 total yards of offense, 18 first downs, and converted three of four fourth-down attempts. Most importantly, the Cougars demonstrated their ability to battle through adversity and finish strong. With the victory, Half Moon Bay improves to 6 - 0 on the season, keeping its undefeated streak alive.
Game Highlights: http://www.hudl.com/v/2URZ0z
Rocky Perry Players of the Game
Offense: Junior QB, #3- Paxton Holden and Junior RB, #9- Joedoln Flores
Defense: Junior LB, # 7- Auggie Lujan
Special Teams: Senior Long/Short Snapper, #5- Lane Miller
Scout: Senior WR, #22- Lane Giannini
Community Cougar- John Carey
This week’s Community Cougar is Senior English teacher and CUTA President, Mr. Carey! On behalf of the football team, we want to thank Mr. Carey for always keeping us engaged with his legendary storytelling, both in the classroom and across our school community. Whether he’s bringing classic literature to life or advocating tirelessly for our staff, his dedication, wisdom, and energy inspire us to give our absolute best on and off the field. Thank you, Mr. Carey, for being a true leader, a favorite educator, and one of our biggest champions—we’re lucky to have you in our corner!
JV write-up:
The JV Football Team lost 41 to 15 to Woodside on Friday. The Cougars were led by Tristan Reilly’s 110 yards rushing and a touchdown. Manny Hernandez continues his Touchdown per game week (10th rushing TD this season) and rushed for 45 yards. Jorge Vasquez had 8 tackles on Defense. Wyatt Gunning had 5 tackles, a Sack of the Quarter Back and returned 81 yards on 5-Kickoffs.
