“Relief” as Belen Eagles score first win; regular season wrapping up

While Los Lunas seemingly has secured a post season berth, Belen and Valencia appear to be squarely on the shaky side of the bubble with state tournament brackets in football to be announced Sunday morning.

Belen

A disappointing season saw some joy Friday in Gallup as the Belen Eagles posted their first victory of the season, 28-14 over Miyamura.

“We really played well,” head coach Kevin Peña said. “We finally put a game together in all aspects.”

After trailing 7-0, the first of two touchdown passes from Darian Rodriguez to Logan Gonzales gave BHS life. An interception for touchdown by Damian Avila put Belen up 14-7 at the half. Rodriguez added a long touchdown run to help the Eagles nail down the victory.

“It was a sense of relief. It’s been a rough season,” Peña said.

Belen will likely need to beat Piedra Vista Friday at home to have a shot at the 5A playoffs.

Valencia

Valencia’s post-season chances took a hit at home Friday with a 35-21 loss to Grants.

“Miscues on offense stalled us out,” head coach Ledarrius Cage said, adding that “giving up some big plays in the air killed us.” Grants (5-4, 1-1) led 28-7 at the half, but Valencia cut into that on a Aidan Harrington to Cade Ash touchdown pass.

Standout running back Danny Villegas was injured in the second half, and while Isaiah Rodriguez was outstanding in a reserve role with 136 yards rushing and two touchdowns, VHS (4-5, 0-2) came up short.

Valencia may need a victory Friday at district leader Silver and some help to secure a 4A playoff berth.

Los Lunas

After a bye week, Los Lunas (7-2, 3-0) heads Friday to Clovis (4-5, 3-0) with the winner claiming the 6A District 5 title.