Galena Park North Shore Edges Duncanville 10-7 in Defensive State Championship Battle

ARLINGTON, Texas (TXAN 24) — Defense ruled the day as Galena Park North Shore held off Duncanville for a 10-7 victory in a tightly contested UIL state championship matchup that came down to the final minute at AT&T Stadium.

Both teams struggled to find offensive rhythm early, trading punts and defensive stops through a scoreless first half. The stalemate finally broke in the second half as North Shore capitalized on key opportunities to build a narrow lead that proved just enough.

After a defensive heavy first two quarters, Galena Park North Shore struck first in the third quarter behind a balanced offensive effort. Quarterback #7 Kaleb Maryland finished 12-of-20 for 154 yards and a touchdown, managing the game efficiently and keeping Duncanville’s defense guessing.

North Shore extended its advantage with a field goal in the fourth quarter, pushing the lead to 10-0 and putting pressure on Duncanville to respond.

The Panthers answered late in the fourth quarter, finding the end zone to cut the deficit to 10-7, setting up a tense final sequence.

With the game on the line, Duncanville drove into North Shore territory and faced a critical 4th-and-3 situation. A pass attempt from #14 Jcoryon Rivers fell incomplete, resulting in a turnover on downs with just 38 seconds remaining.

North Shore took over possession and sealed the win with a kneel-down by #7 Kaleb Maryland at the GPN22, running out the clock and securing the victory.

Stat Leaders

Duncanville

• #14 Jcoryon Rivers — 17-35, 162 yards (Passing)

• #1 Zach Turner — 6 receptions, 80 yards, 1 TD (Receiving)

• #2 Ayson Theus — 5 rushes, 46 yards (Rushing)

Galena Park North Shore

• #7 Kaleb Maryland — 12-20, 154 yards, 1 TD (Passing)

• #27 Hezekiah Johnson — 17 rushes, 93 yards (Rushing)

• #5 Jaylen Bocard — 4 receptions, 79 yards, 1 TD (Receiving)

In a game defined by defensive discipline and missed opportunities, Galena Park North Shore made the most of its chances when it mattered most. Duncanville’s late push wasn’t enough to overcome the early struggles, as North Shore’s defense delivered a State Title to their trophy cabinet.

It wasn’t flashy, but in Texas football, grit still wins games.