Final score: Los Alamitos 49, Newport Harbor 0
The game: Aside from the early plays of Newport Harbor’s opening drive, Los Alamitos thoroughly dominated this game. The Sailors started the game at the Los Alamitos 30, picked up a couple of first downs and then had Cole Kinder break free from a 27-yard run but he fumbled at the Los Alamitos 12. Darien Cornay recovered and on the first play for the Griffins, Holden Edmondson found Jacob Gasser for an 88-yard touchdown and the rout was on. Los Alamitos would score on four of its six first-half possessions. The Griffins excelled in all phases of the game Friday, they looked a lot like the team I saw defeat Lakewood (53-16) back in September.
Key to the game: The play of the corners Dylan Laurent and Darien Cornay. Unfortunately for the Griffins, it seems as if everybody has been slowed by injuries this season. Laurent (knee) and Cornay (ankle) displayed their big-play ability Friday night. Laurent had two spectacular diving catches, one on a big 41-yard reception and another on an interception. He also had 27-yard touchdown reception and 66-yard punt return for a touchdown. Cornay had a fumble recovery and intercepted two passes
Player of the game: Without a doubt that’s Jacob Gasser. Having him back on offense worked wonders and had the Griffins offense looking like it did back in September. Gasser showed good hands, despite an injured thumb, and his great speed all night. He definitely belongs in the conversation for all-county wide receivers.
Key stat: Not to be overlook was the play of the Los Alamitos defense, with the likes of players like Drew Platt and Will Armstrong, the Griffins allowed three first downs in the first half and three in the second half.
What it means: The five-game losing streak backed Los Alamitos into a corner and the Griffins know they don’t have any room for slip-ups. Taking a look at the schedule, you would think things favor the Griffins to finish at least third in the Sunset League. Los Alamitos faces Huntington Beach next week and then Marina, so you would think they would finish 3-2
Newport Harbor was never able to find the offensive consistency it had in the 33-27 overtime victory over Huntington Beach last week. The Sailors will look to get things turned around next week against Marina, but they have to conclude the regular season against Edison. There is still a lot to play for in the Sunset League.
