Morton Ranch pulled away late to beat Seven Lakes 42-28 in the District 22-6A opener for both teams Thursday, Sept. 17, at Legacy Stadium.

Katy ISD Athletics reported that both squads battled throughout the game before the Mavericks separated at the end. The loss drops the Spartans to 0-3 on the season and 0-1 in district play.

Seven Lakes entered the contest winless after two lopsided non-district defeats. The Spartans fell to Memorial 50-21 on Aug. 28 at Tully Stadium, then lost to Foster 35-14 on Sept. 5. A bye week on Sept. 11 gave head coach Jimmy Hamon's squad extra preparation time before the district opener.

Morton Ranch, coached by Nick Cavallo, also entered on a rough note. The Mavericks lost to Cinco Ranch 49-7 on Sept. 11, according to Katy Times score results. Thursday's 42-28 win over the Spartans marked a turnaround for a Morton Ranch team that was outscored by 42 points a week earlier.

Both coaches struck optimistic tones before the season began. In the Katy ISD fall sports preview published Aug. 31, Hamon said he was enthusiastic about new players who put in offseason work. Cavallo called his roster's mix of veterans and young talent "exciting to watch."

Hamon's full preseason comment captured the mood at the time: "I am enthusiastic to see some fresh faces who have worked extremely hard during the offseason perform as we begin the football season."

Three weeks later, the Spartans are still searching for their first win.

The 0-1 district start adds urgency. Seven Lakes will need to pick up wins quickly in 22-6A play to stay in the playoff conversation, and the schedule does not slow down.

Seven Lakes hosts Paetow in its next District 22-6A game on Friday, Sept. 25, at 6:30 p.m.