Taking on the undefeated Lovejoy Leopards Thursday night at Memorial Stadium.

“They were a fast and tough team and it was exciting to test ourselves,” junior Sam Wennas said. “We did a good job matching their physicality.”

The Redhawks were able to keep up with the Leopards until half (7-7), but the Leopards were able to slowly pull away for the 31-17 win.

 “I was very proud of our effort and fight last night,” head coach Matt Swinnea said. “We felt like we were able to go toe-to-toe versus a top 10 team and hold our own. Outside of a few plays, the outcome could have been much different.”

Thursday’s game was the last regular season game, however the team is advancing to the playoffs as the team finished in 4th place in District 7-5A and will take on the Ennis Lions on Dec. 11. 

“I’m really happy for this senior class,” Swinnea said. “We challenged the team to adopt the mantra that “ItsTime” for us to become a winner, championship contender, and playoff team.  This senior class will leave a legacy of doing those things. They are a great group of young men.”

With their first playoff game only a week away, the team looks to spend their practices developing their skills, in any way possible.

“We’re always looking to improve and sharpen our play in everything we do,” senior Will Ashmore said. “And now with playoffs, the level of play increases so we need to be sharp and focused, and play our very best.”