Defense helps Portola football team defeat Beckman 20-6 and avenge last week’s loss

Portola’s defensive players celebrate Friday’s victory over Beckman. (Photo courtesy Portola football)

Portola’s football team, led by a strong defensive effort, avenged a loss to Beckman one week earlier with a 20-6 nonleague victory over the Patriots Friday night at Portola.

Beckman defeated Portola 27-7 on Thursday, March 25. The nonleague game Friday matching the teams in another game was arranged when Northwood cancelled its game with Portola due to injuries. Northwood Coach Michael Stewart announced Friday that the varsity spring program was suspended due to injuries.

In Friday’s game, Portola (2-1) was led by Kyle Zagorski, the offensive player of the game. The defensive player of the game was Andre Quiroz, the special teams player of the game was Jacob Mohr and Coach Peter Abe said the the entire defense was the MVP.

“Overall, much improved discipline and execution under unique circumstances as a team,” Abe said Saturday. “The defensive staff adapted well to the sudden change in opponent from Tuesday morning, and made necessary adjustments to respond with a better performance against a quality Beckman team. 

“Still plenty to work on moving forward, but more so happy that both programs were able to secure a game quickly so our players were ensured an opportunity to compete during this wild COVID-season.  From what I’m hearing, both teams came out pretty healthy, and with all things in perspective, that’s what’s important. 

“Every day things seem to be getting better in our area, and our players, coaches, parents, and school community are doing their part to make positive choices to keep each other safe, while making the most out of the 2020-2021 hybrid school year. It’s been great to see Bulldog perseverance on display, and excited for what’s to come from the Bulldogs in the future.”

Beckman (1-2) was led by Jett Daviss, who rushed for 120 yards and a touchdown on 17 carries.

“Portola played a terrific and complementary game, and we committed way too many self-inflicted errors to beat a good team,” said Beckman Coach Marcello Giuliano. “But we competed until the end for sure, and had our opportunities to get back in the game. Our staff loves the way this team plays; these kids respond to adversity and play with a real love for one another.”

“Senior defensive end Jesse Gonzalez had a great game up front and senior Keller Meyer led the linebacking corps.”