Just past the entrance to Raytown South’s stadium, the booster club set up a tent selling T-shirts bearing the phrase “This is our house.”

Though not uncommon in high school athletics, that bravado had special meaning for the Cardinals Friday night as they hosted their first true home game in 54 years.

The game ended in a 25-22 loss to Truman, but senior Jabril Cox said that did not tarnish the excitement of finally getting to play in the new stadium.

“I loved it, and the atmosphere was great,” Cox said. “It’s a place that we finally get to call home.”

Cox made himself comfortable Friday by contributing to all three of the Cardinals’ touchdowns. His first came through the air when he connected with Tyree Sorrells. He added a two-point conversion and then ran in the next two touchdowns for Raytown South.

But his efforts were not enough to offset a Truman offense that became the first to score in the new stadium. After the Patriots recovered a fumble on the opening kickoff, Juan Flores ran it in for a touchdown. The Truman defense followed with a safety, and Will Jenkins nailed a field goal for a 12-8 halftime lead.

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