Segerstrom Coach Joseph Tagaloa talks to his team after a win earlier this season. (FILE PHOTO: Tim Burt, OC Sports Zone).
After a lengthy delay because of lightning, Segerstrom’s football team battled and came away with a 33-13 Foxtrot League victory over El Toro on the Chargers home field.
The start of the game was delayed 90 minutes and during the lightning storm, fans were asked to return to their cars.
Segerstrom (4-5, 2-2) most likely helped its CIF playoff chances with the win.
“We came out at the regular start time, only to be sent back to the locker room after three plays,” said Segerstrom Coach Joseph Tagaloa. “We started back up around 8:30 to resume. Both teams were excited to get back out there. Once play resumed, we came out focused and ready to go.”
The defense led the way with multiple sacks and created key turnovers, the coach said.
“Jullian Hernandez had two interceptions, both times returning the ball inside the 10-yard line,” Tagaloa said. “Our defensive linemen Jonathan Gasca, Joseph Xicohtencatl and Jordan Garcia all had sacks, with Paul Perez coming up with an interception. It was tremendous group effort on defense that allowed our offense to take advantage of good field position and swings in momentum.
“On offense, the big guys up front really took over the game in the second half. Adrian Cervantes led the running attack finding the end zone four times with Anthony Zambrano adding one more. Noah Martinez made some big plays down the stretch with his legs as throwing the ball proved difficult at times with the conditions on the field.
“On special teams guys were flying around and prevented any swings of momentum, which allowed for our offense and defense to do their job.”
Segerstrom wraps up the regular season hosting Beckman Friday night on senior night.
“Overall, it was a great team win,” Tagaloa said. “The guys really came together and played all four quarters, something we try to instill in our guys. Tonight they competed every snap and they earned the victory for it.”
El Toro (4-5, 1-3) hosts undefeated Orange Friday night.
Send football news to timburt@ocsportszone.com
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