The Robert F. Kennedy Thunderbirds remain undefeated after a thrilling 36-35 victory over Tulare Union on Thursday. Pushing themselves past the Tribe with a successful 2-point conversion by Jorge Avila, Kennedy’s ground game once again proved too much for a talented Tulare Union team filled with future collegiate players. Despite entering the matchup as the favorite, the win marked the first time a Delano team has beaten Tulare Union since 2003, and considering the final score, it was not a foregone conclusion. The Thunderbirds are now 2-0 as they prepare to host Mission Oak.

Kennedy’s star players led the way once again in the victory. Quarterback Jordan Palomo rushed for 111 yards and a touchdown while also throwing a 49-yard touchdown pass to receiver Daniel Vazquez. Running backs Jorge Avila and Isaiah Feathers each rushed for more than 100 yards, with 154 and 107 yards, respectively. However, it was sophomore running back Nathan Hernandez who led the ground game with two rushing touchdowns.

Senior linebacker Anthony Lara shined defensively once again, leading the team with eight tackles, including two sacks, and an interception. Feathers followed with seven tackles and a sack of his own.

The game was a back-and-forth affair, culminating in an overtime touchdown followed by Kennedy’s aggressive go-for-it mindset, which was also on display in last year’s matchup against Hanford.

Now sitting at 2-0, the Thunderbirds prepare to host another Tulare-based opponent in Mission Oak on Friday for their home opener.