Red Oak falls to Aledo 34-14

The Hawks returned to AT&T Stadium on Friday, Nov. 29 to face the defending 5A Division II State Champions. Both teams came into the game with identical records and on paper looked as if this could be one of the better 5A games.

However, it was not to be.

The Hawks had one of those first halves where nothing went right. Untimely, penalties and two huge 1st half turnovers put the Hawks in a deep hole as Aledo went up 21-0 at halftime.

The Hawks offense was able to move the ball though. C.J. Palmer gashed the Aledo defense multiple times. Ervin was able to connect with Raymond Gay II and Coby Cavil on several quick outs and crossing routes and on a gutsy 4th and 2 in the 2nd Qtr. Coach Ross called Palmer’s number, who bulldozed his way to a Hawks first down.

The Hawks defense, who played lights out all year long, came to play. For the most part, they held Aledo in check and got after the Aledo QB. They left everything on the field.

The Hawks played a much better 2nd half and without the mistakes of the first half, were able to move the ball up the field and scored 14 points during the 2nd half.

Although the outcome is not what the Hawks expected, they held their heads high after the game ended. The Hawks players and coaches had accomplished many things during the 2019 season, which had not been done in decades. They won their District outright going undefeated in district play and 11-2 overall including their huge win over South Oak Cliff. They won their Bi-district playoff game against Everman. They won their Area playoff game against a good Denton Braswell team. They challenged Aledo in the Regional round.

This team has raised the bar a little higher. Although the Hawks will lose several key Seniors, a good number of starters and talented underclassmen return next year and continue to build the program.