Bishop Lynch High School

NORTH RICHLAND HILLS — The Bishop Lynch football team opened its season on the road at Fort Worth Christian last Friday, where the Friars fell 40-0 at Barrow Field. It marked the first time since 2023 that Bishop Lynch dropped its opening game of the season.

Heading into the contest, the Friars had plenty of unknowns after replacing many of last season's starters through graduation and transfers. That, combined with several key players dealing with injuries before the season even began, made for a difficult challenge against the Cardinals on the road.

Despite the circumstances, the team entered the game prepared and excited to finally face an opponent wearing different colors for the first time since last fall. Friday's game was also the first time the Friars took the field against another team, as Bishop Lynch did not have a scrimmage leading up to the season opener.

The Cardinals jumped out to an early lead and controlled the game throughout, making it a difficult night for a young Bishop Lynch squad still learning how to play together in a varsity game setting.

Making his first start at quarterback for Bishop Lynch, senior transfer MJ Haggan Jr. showed flashes of his athletic ability throughout the night. Haggan completed 5 of 18 passes for 73 yards while adding 27 yards on the ground.

The Friars also received contributions from their running backs, with Lance Tinio rushing for 25 yards and Akani Cruz Berrios adding 24 yards. Through the air, Jeremiya Manning led Bishop Lynch with 57 receiving yards.

Defensively, senior Hayes Bonds led the Friars with 11 tackles, providing a steady presence throughout the night. Atticus Richardson added three tackles, all being tackles for loss, while Colin Harrison finished with six tackles, a tackle for loss, and two quarterback hurries.

While the season opener did not go the way the Friars hoped, Friday's game provided valuable experience for a young Bishop Lynch team that will have an opportunity to learn and grow from its first game together.

With a long season still ahead, the Friars will look to use the lessons from Friday night as they prepare for their home opener and an opportunity to turn the page next week.

NEXT UP:
Bishop Lynch has their home opener this week against Sutter Union from California. The game will be played in Roffino Stadium with kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m.