The Wildcats picked up their first win of the season with a 30-14 road win at Maryvale Prep on Friday night. Following a defensive first-half battle Joseph City held an 8-6 edge. The only score in the half came from a 70 catch and run between quarterback Cort Miller and his senior back Dylan Salazar.
In the second half, they found their stride. Playing smash-mouth football and controlling the clock behind a veteran offensive line anchored by senior center Marquell Fredericks, the Cats scored another 22 points, securing their first win of the season. Jaxon Arnell and Tytan Penrod led a solid defensive unit that held Maryvale under 100 total yards in the game.
“Overall, this was a big step forward for our program. These boys are learning a brand-new offense, a new defense, and new special teams plays. I am extremely proud of them for how quickly they are absorbing this information and making improvements each week,” said new head coach Martin Roes, who also earned his first win at his alma mater.
The win moves them to 1-2 on the season. This week they welcome the defending 1A state champion Hayden, who is unbeaten and averaging 48 points per game through their first three wins. They are only giving up an average of 16 points defensively. The Lobos will be a tough test for the Wildcats to get their second win.
