Celina recently spent $25 million to revamp its sports complex. After a 7-5 season last year, Celina is going to have to wait a little longer to get their first 2020 home win as they were shocked in their home opener 32-20 by Melissa.
“It felt amazing to get our first win because a couple of weeks ago we didn’t know for sure if we were going to have a season or not,” Melissa wide receiver Antonio Robinson said.
Robinson is a three-star prospect via the 247Sports Composite. Robinson currently has offers from Arizona, Eastern Michigan, and New Mexico among others. Many thought that this could be the year for Celina to knock off Melissa as Melissa has owned this rivalry as of late, winning every game since 2017.
Last year in Melissa’s 29-17 win over Celina Robinson caught two passes for 57 yards and a touchdown. He made his presence known this year too as the first score of the game was a Robinson touchdown to put Melissa up in the first quarter.
“It felt great catching the first touchdown so early in the game it gave our team some confidence and momentum,” Robinson explained. Despite playing two quarterbacks, Ryan Johnson and Sam Fennigan, Melissa through Robinson and others propelled themselves to the victory.
Last year, Melissa had a 9-4 season in which they made a run to the 4A D1 regional semifinals. While they lost to eventual state runner-up La Vega, it was a 45-42 effort in which Melissa almost spoiled their party.
Last year, Robinson caught 41 passes for 921 yards and eight touchdowns. Despite only returning 12 starters, Robinson believes he and Melissa can be a force to be reckoned with in 2020.
“Y’all can expect us to be the most physical team and the most dominant offense and defense in our district. What you can expect from me is to be an all-state wide receiver and be the best teammate I can be and give it my all every snap,” Robinson said.
Melissa started off their season on a high note after a great playoff run last season. Their ‘rivalry’ with Celina in turn is starting to become a one-sided affair.
For Robinson, expect him to continue to put up big numbers as he aims for his goals. Don’t count this kid out.
“Fans should know that I make plays and that I will give it my all every play and also I’m a three-star wide receiver.”
