Nathaniel Garcia is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Casteel High School for AZPreps365.com

The Casteel Colts fell another game short this season against a high state ranked opponent, falling to the Hamilton Huskies 17-7, a matchup that was competitive till the very end, even though unfortunate events took place for the Colts.

The Colts started off the game strong in the passing game as Paul Palmer threw a 23 yard pass to Landon Patch and ultimately driving the ball down the field, but a failed field goal try prevents Casteel from getting points on the board. 

The Colts were able to drive the ball down the field, but failed to finish drives with points.

“Offensively we had a bunch of good moments, just not being able to finish drives is really what killed us this game,” said Paul Palmer.

Senior quarterback Palmer was taken out of the game due to injury in the second quarter. Sophomore Collie Green replaced Palmer in the quarterback position. 

Green was able to help this team stay on track to staying competitive in this game by completing pass games but also being mobile around the field. Green scored a 2-yard rushing touchdown.

With Casteel star quarterback out of the game, a victory seemed to be fading away at that moment. However, Mason Lewis carried the team with his running game, keeping the hopes alive by having 25-yard and 35-yard kick returns, setting the team up in good field position. 

The defense was also leading the team on its back by holding a very powerful offensive Hamilton team to only 10 points, still making a very winnable game for the Colts. 

After halftime the Colts run game was a very vital part in success with driving the ball down the field to get opportunities to score points, but once again failed to put points on the board. The first points that occurred for Casteel was in the 4th quarter with 3:50 left in the game. 

The Colts defense was stellar after the half as well coming up with an interception and only allowing one touchdown after the half. 

Discipline played a very important role in both the offense and defensive side of the ball by the Colts only having two penalties in the whole game but also drawing multiple penalties from the Huskies. 

“We always strive for no penalties on offense, and to just not try to help the opposing defense as best as we can,” said Landon Patch.

The Casteel defense was very disciplined by drawing multiple false starts from the Hamilton Huskies making it difficult to score points against the Colts. 

Missed opportunities were present for Casteel to put points on the board, but the Colts played a very clean and well disciplined game from start to finish. Showing everyone that the Colts are in it to win it, no matter what opponent they are facing. 

“We just proved that we can compete with some of the best teams in the state, I just feel like our guys are finally gaining the confidence that we can compete with teams like this,” said Jackson Peterson.