Final score: Orange Lutheran 37, Servite 36
The game – Survive is the best way to describe this game. After a relatively calm first half, the Lancers and Friars rolled up their sleeves and settled in for old-fashion shootout at Cerritos College. The Friars went three-and-out on their possession of the second half, but scored on their final three, taking a 36-31 lead on their last possession. The Lancers scored on all four of their second half possessions, the final one being Markell Quinn’s four-yard touchdown as time expired for the thrilling victory.
Key to the game – This game was interesting because neither team could do anything defensively to slow the other down. Aside from Daniel Garcia (Servite) interception, there weren’t any turnovers in the game. On one hand, you had Servite’s up-tempo, balanced offensive attack that had a lot of success with Jackson Taylor out of the backfield and with Aaron Simpson running and throwing all around the field. Then you had Orange Lutheran, who didn’t do much through the air, but rushed for 364 yards on the ground. It was fitting that on its winning drive, that Orange Lutheran didn’t attempt a pass. You knew the Lancers were going to go out with their strength and that was running the ball.
Players of the game:
Lj Northington – The senior quarterback didn’t have gaudy numbers in the passing game, but the job he did leading the Lancers’ option attack told the story. He averaged 7.6 yards carry, rushing for 144 and two touchdowns.
Aaron Simpson, Servite – Simpson is proving to be more than a capable fill-in at quarterback. I saw him in the second game of the year against Bishop Amat and he looked much comfortable under center Friday. He rushed for two touchdowns and passing for 259 yards and might have earned a nickname as a twitter follower dubbed him “Little Manziel.”
Jackson Taylor, Servite – I’m not sure there was anybody on the field running harder than Taylor did. He had several “Beast Mode” runs. Unfortunately he was sidelined late with a leg injury.
Key stat – Servite had five drives of 80 yards or longer that ended in touchdowns; Orange Lutheran had four of at least 69 yards.
What it means – Orange Lutheran avoided the dreaded 0-2 start in the Trinity League with the victory. The Lancers are now in a four-way tie for second place at 1-1. However, there really isn’t any time to exhale with Santa Margarita next on the schedule. Both team will need to try and get some sort of pressure from the defensive front next week. I don’t remember many, if any sacks in this game. Servite has to regroup and get ready to face Mater Dei next week. One area of concern is the defense. The Friars have allowed 38 and 37 points in their first two games. They still have to deal with JT Daniels (Mater Dei), KJ Costello (Santa Margarita) and of course the St. John Bosco machine.
