ANAHEIM – Western experienced the elation of winning its first game under new coach Dan Davidson last week. On Thursday, the Pioneers’ journey wasn’t as enjoyable, but it could still prove valuable for a program trying to create a new identity.
Western got a taste of facing Division 1-A speed courtesy of Long Beach Millikan running back Donald Gordon.
The senior rushed for 182 yards and three touchdowns as the Rams improved to 3-0 with a 47-3 victory at Western.
Gordon has scholarship offers from San Jose State – who scouted him Thursday – and Colorado. The one-time transfer from Louisiana racked up 169 rushing yards, including a 76-yard touchdown run, in the first quarter as the Rams sprinted to a 27-0 advantage.
Gordon carried the ball nine times in the first quarter but then just three more times.
The Rams, off to their best start since 2009, rushed for 300 yards and also held Western (1-1) to 55.
Rene Santillan kicked a 27-yard field goal in the second quarter to capitalize on a fumble recovery by Brandon Olvera and end the shutout.
The Pioneers also played in the second half without quarterback/outside linebacker Nick Zarate (asthma), who recovered a fumble off his sack.
Western’s Don Anderson added a sack.
“I think the kids were a little overwhelmed, but that’s good because I’m going to use that to our advantage (in practice) and get after it,” said Davidson, whose team beat Katella last week.
“This is what we needed … and it’s going to make us a better team.”
Western plays Buena Park, which features standout receiver Jaylinn Hawkins, on Oct. 3 and Tustin’s George Wilson and Cypress’ Quinten Pounds in the Empire League.
Contact the writer: dalbano@ocregister.com
