Twenty-one unanswered second half points helped the Hays Rebels notch a 41-13 season opening win over the San Marcos Rattlers Friday at Shelton Stadium.

Anchoring it all was a Rebel defense that garnered critical plays down the stretch, including a takeaway by defensive back Justin McMahon that helped spur the run.

Hays (1-0) led 20-13 at intermission, but had their backs against the wall midway through the third frame when San Marcos drove deep into Rebel territory and was on the verge of a game-...