PHOTOS: Segerstrom opens league play with homecoming win over St. Margaret’s

Noah Tagaloa of Segerstrom scores a touchdown, as Sebastian Salazar of St. Margaret’s defends Friday night. (Photos courtesy Mark Bausman).

Segerstrom High School’s football team was happy to be back home Friday night and celebrated with a 35-27 victory over St. Margaret’s in the Kappa League opener on homecoming.

“It was exciting to open up league play last night in front of our fans in the jungle,” Segerstrom Coach Joseph Tagaloa said Saturday. “It has been a month since we last played at home, and with many of our alumni coming back for homecoming, it was nice to get the win. 

“Our offense really played well last night, scoring on five out of seven possessions.  Louis Garcia really stepped up for us at quarterback showing his poise and leadership. We ran the ball well last night behind the efforts of Noah Tagaloa who had three rushing touchdowns and Andrew Diaz who consistently helped move the chains. Nicholas Cervantes added two touchdowns, one rushing and one receiving.”

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

Under pressure, St. Margaret's quarterback Kai Letcher passes the ball as Segerstrom's Gilbert Peralta defends.

Segerstrom's Nick Cervantes breaks through defenders and picks up yards.

Cob Sprague of St. Margaret's gains yards as Segerstrom's Jason Salazar defends.

Segerstrom's Noah Tagaloa pushes off the St. Margaret's defender for a gain.

The Rosales family in the stands to support their son and brother No. 32 Logan Rosales.

Andrew Tobin of St. Margaret's carries the ball as Anthony Gomez of Segerstrom defends.

Segerstrom's Andrew Diaz carries the ball, as Andrew Toubin of St. Margaret's defends.

Segerstrom's Nick Cervantes gets all alone downfield for a touchdown.

Segerstrom cheer members perform at halftime.

Jack Kleinhanzi of St. Margaret's makes the reception as Segerstrom'sSean Chandler defends.

Segerstrom king and queen Andrew Diaz and Jaylynn Nieto during the school's homecoming.

Luke Newman of St. Margaret's breaks the tackle by Sean Chandler of Segerstrom.

Presentation of the flags by the Segerstrom color guard.

Segerstrom (4-2, 1-0) also had a strong defensive effort.

“The defense was led by Gilbert Peralta who recovered a fumble that set up a crucial touchdown drive,.” Coach Tagaloa said. “Josh Preciado, Damian Anuu, Vicente Rivera and Henry Beiza also played well on the defensive line. They consistently got after the quarterback, forcing St. Margaret’s into passing situation. Our linebacking play was led by Jullian Hernandez, who solidified our run defense. We had several guys step up for us and the secondary especially Mario Lopez, who got the start and made some great plays. 

“At the end of the night, our special teams really had a huge impact on the game. Our PAT team was perfect on kicks with Diego Hernandez making all five of his opportunities. When the game was on the line, Luis Prado recovered the onside kick attempt, which allowed us to run out the clock.

“Overall it was a great team win and I’m proud of our guys for competing for all four quarters.”

Segerstrom continues league play Thursday night vs. Esperanza at Yorba Linda.

“We must build on this effort as we get ready for a solid Esperanza team next Thursday night,” Tagaloa said.

Coach Dan O’Shea’s St. Margaret’s team (2-4, 0-1) hosts Brea Olinda Friday night.

Send football news to timburt@ocsportszone.com