Mission High looks to continue rebirth with win

MISSION — So far, the Mission High Eagles have pretty much backed up what they said before the season. Though some of them did say anything less than a 10-0 regular season would be a disappointment, the 9-1 Eagles have met all other goals they wanted to reach.

They wanted to improve from last year. Done. They wanted to become District 32-4A’s best defense. Done. Most importantly, they wanted to win the school’s first district title since 1993. Done.

Now comes the next part, advancing deep into the state playoffs for the first time since 2002 when they reached the state quarterfinals. The first step for the Eagles is Friday night when they play host to Alice (7-3) in a Class 4A, Division-II bi-district game.

Since losing to PSJA Memorial in non-district play, the Eagles have won seven straight games as their defense has matured into one of the best in the Valley. The offense, which struggled at times earlier this season, has scored 148 points over the last three games.

All of that was part of another goal the Eagles had, restoring the program to the lofty spot they feel it should hold.

“Bottom line, I told the players earlier this week, I hope that we’re not content winning the district title,” Eagles coach Mario Peña said. “Because, ultimately, it comes down to who wants to continue playing and who wants to continue working out.

“I hope that we’re not through and these guys stay hungry for more and wanting more.”

One year ago at this time, the Eagles were preparing for a bi-district game against Alice. Then, however, it felt like Mission had already reached its goal of making the playoffs after going winless in non-district play, and that anything more than its 56-20 loss to the Coyotes would have been a bonus.

Though making the postseason for that team was something of an accomplishment, making the playoffs wasn’t going to be enough for this year’s Eagles. After all, Mission isn’t known for celebrating short playoff runs.

“This is big, especially for us seniors. We got beat last year,” linebacker Rudy Lopez said. “It’s a big difference. We have to show what we can do now, show the different style of defense and what Peña brings to the table. It’s totally different.”

Brian Sandalow covers District 32-4A football for Valley Freedom Newspapers. You can reach him at (956) 683-4436 or via e-mail at bsandalow@themonitor.com.