PHOTOS: Calvary Chapel rallies for big road victory against Valley Christian

Calvary Chapel’s Eli Sutherland eludes a tackle in the first quarter Friday. (Photos courtesy Aidan Russell, Russell Bros Productions).

Calvary Chapel’s football team rallied from a first-half deficit to defeat Valley Christian 33-19 Friday night in a non-league game in Cerritos.

It was the second win to start the season for the Eagles.

“We came out a little slow, losing 12-6 in the first half,” said Eagles Coach Jack McInally. “At halftime, we made some key adjustments offensively and put the ball in the hands of our sophomore quarterback Colin Wiles.”

To see the slide show, click on the first photo:

Valley Christian's Tyson McNeese gets the handoff from Graham Lunzer.

Valley Christian wide receiver Sean Bouma attempts to elude Calvary Chapel defensive back Noah Barthel.

Calvary Chapel's Daniel Nieves out runs Valley Christian's Noah Pelton for a touchdown catch and run.

Calvary Chapel QB Colin Wiles throws a swing pass to Waldo Castrejon.

Calvary Chapel's Chaz White returns a kickoff.

Valley Christian's quarterback is tackled for a loss by Calvary Chapel's Jett Rauch.

Wiles, in his first year of varsity football, had three touchdown passes for 231 yards on 9 of 17 attempts. Senior captain Daniel Nieves had 153 yards and two touchdowns on six catches. 

“On defense, we played lights out all game,” McInally said. “Coach Justin Nicholls had an amazing game plan that the players executed. Eli Sutherland had a strip sack that was scoop and scored on by Jackson Stice that sealed the game in the fourth quarter. 

“Couldn’t be prouder of our team. Our senior leadership has been spectacular. We are happy about starting 2-0, avenging two tough losses we suffered last year, but focused on Westminster this week.”

The Eagles meet the Lions Friday at 7 p.m. at Westminster.

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