ST. GEORGE — The host El Capitan Eagles of Colorado City, Arizona, won their second consecutive Border Battle football game Friday, defeating the Water Canyon Wildcats of Hildale 64-14.
Last year the Eagles won the inaugural rivalry game 46-6 at Water Canyon High School.
The Eagles scored on their first play — a 75-yard reception by Monte Hammon, his first of three touchdowns.
“We wanted to come out quickly and set the tone on offense and defense, so we were pleased when Monte took a swing pass 75 yards to the house on the first play,” El Capitan assistant coach Derek Lange said. “He’s been working so hard in the off-season and he does so much for our team.
“We’re happy about the win and we’re looking forward to continue getting better every day.”
Hammon had four receptions for 161 yards and one rushing touchdown for 13 yards. He also had two solo tackles, six assisted tackles, two interceptions one pass breakup and one fumble recovery.
Helping with the winning effort was quarterback Zed White who threw for 356 yards. He was 9 for 17 on completions for six scores and added 12 rushes for 90 yards and one TD.
Defensive back Jairus Hammon had one of the Eagles’ five interceptions plus one fumble recovery.
Water Canyon leaders included running back Kylen Brown who rushed for over 100 yards, including a 43-yard rushing TD. Running back and slot receiver Kyden Johnson rushed for 75 yards and added 55 receiving yards including a 17-yard TD reception. Quarterback Johnny Johnson rushed for 60 yards and threw for 100 and one TD
This is the Wildcats’ second year fielding a football team. Last year, they made it to the state semifinals but lost to eventual state champion Gunnison Valley.
The Eagles made the Arizona 8-man 1A state playoffs last season but lost their first game to Bagdad Sultans.
“I’m excited for the rivalry between El Cap and Water Canyon to continue to grow. The schools are so close to each other and all of the kids know each other, so that’s what makes the ‘Border Bowl’ so fun,” Lange said. “Coach Justin (Adair) and I grew up playing for high schools that have long traditions of success, so sometimes I have to pause and remember that competitive tackle football has not been around here for very long.
“It’s been so cool to witness the beginnings of it here, and I’ve been so inspired by the way the communities here have come together around football. I hope both programs continue to grow stronger and that we can continue building a healthy rivalry with Water Canyon.”
The Wildcats are now 0-2 for the season while the Eagles are 1-1.
Water Canyon next plays at Fredonia Lynx (Arizona) on Friday at 7 p.m.
El Capitan plays Mayer on their home field Friday at 7 p.m.
Photo Gallery
The El Capitan Eagles beat the Water Canyon Wildcats for the second annual Battle of the Border in Colorado City, Arizona, Aug. 25, 2023 | Photo courtesy of Steve Showalter, St. George News
The El Capitan Eagles beat the Water Canyon Wildcats for the second annual Battle of the Border in Colorado City, Arizona, Aug. 25, 2023 3 | Photo courtesy of Steve Showalter, St. George News
The El Capitan Eagles beat the Water Canyon Wildcats for the second annual Battle of the Border in Colorado City, Arizona, Aug. 25, 2023 | Photo courtesy of Steve Showalter, St. George News
Water Canyon Wildcats Kyden Johnson shows good sportsmanship by helping up El Capitan Eagles Zed White during the second annual Battle of the Border in Colorado City, Arizona, Aug. 25, 2023 | Photo courtesy of Leta Hammon, St. George News
The Water Canyon Wildcats got their offense moving in the second quarter during the second annual Battle of the Border in Colorado City, Arizona, Aug. 25, 2023 | Photo courtesy of Leta Hammon, St. George News
The El Capitan Eagles Monte Hammon catches the ball for 1 of his 3 TDs during the second annual Battle of the Border in Colorado City, Ariz., August 25, 2023 | Photo courtesy of Leta Hammon, St. George News
The El Capitan Eagles beat the Water Canyon Wildcats for the second annual Battle of the Border in Colorado City, Arizona, Aug. 25, 2023 | Photo courtesy of Leta Hammon, St. George News
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