Varsity football left Pridgeon Stadium with a 63-3 loss against the Cypress Falls Eagles in the first round of playoffs on Nov. 14. The Cardinals ended their season with a 6-5 record.

With six minutes to go in the first quarter, Bellaire conceded the first touchdown of the game, after a rushing play from the Eagles.

“We came into the game knowing that it was going to be a challenge,” senior defensive lineman David Franco said. “We had a lot of key players injured, which made it a tough game for sure.”

Despite entering the game shorthanded, the Cardinals fought hard, scoring a field goal and forcing some turnovers.

“I think we still fought to the end,” junior linebacker Sullivan Mulcahy said. “We pushed with what we had.”

There were also key players for the Cardinals which kept them competing.

“Our kicker Cole McLean definitely performed well in this game, he had some good punts, and scored a kick in the first quarter,” Franco said. “I think that kept us going.”

The Cardinals believed they had a successful season, ending 3rd in the district.

“I think our new coach, Coach Devonte, brought new culture and perspectives to the team, making us better players,” Franco said.

The result pushed the Cardinals to think about preparing for the next season.

“I think our loss just shows us what we can continue working on,” Mulcahy said. “We’ll come back more prepared for the next season.”

The loss also marked the final moments for the seniors.

“Looking back, Bellaire football really helped me as a person, to be more disciplined and to always work hard.” Franco said. “My first tackle on varsity will be one of my favorite memories throughout high school.”