ALISO VIEJO - The top-ranked team in the Northeast Division used a strong running game and a stout defensive effort to remain undefeated.

Senior Josh Squirrell rushed for 112 yards and a touchdown, and the Saddleback Valley Christian Warriors rushed for 205 yards to beat the Fairmont Prep Huskies, 14-7, in the San Joaquin league opener for both teams Friday night at Aliso Niguel High.

After recovering a Huskies fumble in the second quarter, the Warriors (4-0) needed just three plays to score as Squirrell took a reverse and scampered 5 yards for a 7-0 lead.

The Warriors controlled the first half as the Huskies managed just 43 yards of offense. The Huskies (2-2) tied it at 7-all in the third quarter on a 3-yard TD run by Richard Johnson.

Erik Speik threw a 22-yard pass to Michael Cannavo to give Saddleback Valley Christian a 14-7 lead.

Contact the writer: jeichelberger@ocregister.com