Saratoga News

Sports

Guerico passes for 108 yards but Falcons lose to Matadors

By Eli Segall

The Saratoga frosh-soph football team came close last week, but not quite close enough.

In its Oct. 13 home game against Monta Vista, the Falcons rallied from a 14-point deficit to close the lead by two, but the Matadors fought back, taking the game 28-12.

"On both offense and defense, penalties and mistakes will take its toll against a good opponent," said Saratoga head coach Shelley Smith.

The Falcons earned 162 all-purpose yards, but were outgunned by the Matadors, who racked up 169 rushing yards alone and 304 total yards.

Quarterback Michael Guercio and wide receiver Gibran Meza brought Saratoga within striking distance. Guercio completed eight passes for 108 yards and sent both touchdowns to Meza, who had five catches for 77 yards.

Meza's second score was set up by a key defensive play from Jens Karren, who had a team-best 12 tackles. With less than 30 seconds remaining in the first half, Karren swatted the ball from the Matador ball carrier deep in Monta Vista territory. Two passes later, the Falcons brought the score to 14-12.

Although the Matadors emerged victorious, several Falcons stood out. Jasper Loren made eight tackles, including one sack, and Timmy Yen helped carry the offense with 39 rushing yards.

Freshmen tie Leland

On Oct. 14, the Saratoga freshman team had better luck, fighting Leland to a 14-14 tie. The tie was quite impressive considering the Chargers gained 253 total yards to Saratoga's 190, and the Falcons were missing several key players.

Quarterback Vinnie Carstends led the charge, completing seven passes for 78 yards and carrying the ball for 61 yards. Offensive lineman Conner Clark provided ample cover with some big blocks. Andy Johnson snagged an interception, and Dale Everett, Nick Dere and Eric Jung all contributed to a strong Saratoga defense.