By Mike Smith
Artesia Daily Press

The Artesia Bulldogs overcame homecoming festivities, a brief Gadsden lead and a 45-minute lightning delay toward the end of the game defeating the Panthers 57-34 at Bulldog Bowl Friday night.

With the win Artesia is now 3-2 overall and 2-0 in District 5-2A. The Panthers are 4-1 overall and 1-1 in league play.

Down 20-16 in the second period, the Bulldogs overtook Gadsden at the 9:19 mark as quarterback Izac Cazares threw a 55-yard touchdown pass to Trent Egeland. Corbyn Dominguez converted the extra point kick as Artesia led 23-20.

In the final phases of the first half, the Bulldogs outdistanced the Panthers as Egeland caught a seven-yard pass from Cazares with 3:17 left before halftime. Dominguez nailed another extra point kick as Artesia extended the lead 30-20.

For a complete recap of the game along with statistics, pick up a copy of Thursday’s Artesia Daily Press.

Mike Smith may be reached via phone at 575-308-8734 and can be followed on X at MSmithartesianm.