Panthers Dominate Cougars 42-0, Set Sights on Crosstown Rival Scorpions

By Kelly Shay

The Piedra Vista Panthers traveled to Albuquerque on Friday night and delivered an impressive performance against the Cibola Cougars at Nusenda Community Stadium, cruising to a 42-0 victory. Once again, Brig Keiser led the charge for the Panthers, accounting for 268 of the team’s 378 total yards of offense and scoring two touchdowns.

The Panthers wasted no time, scoring on their first five possessions. Amassi Griego opened the scoring with an 11-yard touchdown run, followed by a successful extra point from Herrera, giving the Panthers a 7-0 lead with 4:57 left in the first quarter.

Brig Keiser showcased his speed and strength just minutes later with a stunning 75-yard touchdown run. Herrera’s kick extended the lead to 14-0 with 11:23 remaining in the second quarter. Keiser struck again with a 45-yard dash to the end zone, and with another Herrera PAT, the Panthers were up 21-0 with 7:48 left in the half.

A key interception by Javon Zepeda set up the next score, an 18-yard touchdown run by Nick Halvorson. Herrera stayed perfect on the night, making it 28-0. Halvorson capped off the first-half scoring with a 5-yard run, and Herrera’s extra point sent the Panthers into halftime with a commanding 35-0 lead.

In the second half, the Panthers added one more touchdown when Bodey Costa powered through for an 8-yard score, with Herrera’s kick sealing the final score at 42-0.

The Panthers’ defense was relentless, having their best game of the season, forcing several turnovers, and keeping the Cougars’ offense in check all night. The win moves the Panthers’ record to 2-7 and sets up a much-anticipated showdown with crosstown rival Farmington Scorpions at Hutchison Stadium next Friday.

Bragging rights are on the line, and fans can catch all the action, starting with the pre-game show at 6:40 PM on 1390 AM KENN or 92.1 FM.

Photos by Charles Cook