By GILBERT HOFFMAN
ASTRODOME The Nimitz Cougars (8-5) fought valiantly against a strong Katy (12-1) team in the regional finals of Class 5A Division II Region III, but strong defense quieted the Cougars, and all they could manage were two touchdowns for the game, which ended with a Katy victory, 49-14.
For a team that didnt figure to get this far, it was both a reward and a disappointment to be in the fabled Astrodome last Saturday for a game of this magnitude.
Coach Randy Rowe had only praise for his players, noting how hard they practice, and how much spirit they have, especially when they rally in the second half to win. In turn the players said that what took them this far was the excellent coaching that they have had all year, to bring out the best of the team.
For this playoff game, Coach Rowe had said that it would be necessary for Nimitz to play a mistake free game in order to be in it.
However, the final stats showed two interceptions and one fumble (recovered), indicating the pressure that the Cougars were under all day by a strong Katy defense. Katy had 22 first downs, while Nimitz only showed up with 8. In passing, Nimitz was a no-show, with 0 yards on 8 attempts. Only their running game, with 203 yards to Katys 196, kept them in the game. The Cougars had a TD in the second quarter on a Robert Pullings 1 yard carry, after a breathtaking 53 yard sprint by Donald Harrell to put them in position. The last TD by Nimitz was in the fourth quarter, with a 2 yard run by Harrell. Next they recovered an onside kick, and it looked like they might have some momentum, but the Tigers pushed them back 5 yards, even on that play. It was the story of the game. Too much defense, too little offense.
This was the first time that Nimitz had reached the playoffs, but it was the sixth regional title in seven years for the Tigers, who have also had two state titles.
It was not to be for the Cougars, but it was a great effort that brought us to our feet.
Congratulations, Nimitz.
