PHOTOS: Troy holds on for thrilling win over Fullerton in Freeway League opener

Troy’s Ethan Mundt powers for yards as David Williams of Fullerton gives chase. (Photos courtesy CRiveraPhotography).

Troy High School’s football team made a big defensive play with about three minutes left and held on for a 35-34 victory over city rival Fullerton in a thrilling Freeway League opener Friday at Fullerton.

“Jacob Warner blocked the game-tying PAT and we secured the victory,” Troy Coach Michael Echaves said Saturday.

“It was what high school football is all about. City rivalry, homecoming and an exciting game between two hungry teams trying to represent their corners of Fullerton. I’m extremely proud of our team for learning how to win close games. We dropped two earlier in the year and we are growing.”

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

Malachi Meni of Fullerton charges into the end zone.

Troy quarterback Rudy Alcala throws a pass as David Williams of Fullerton defends.

Deshawn Cobbs of Fullerton carries the ball as Ethan Mundt of Troy defends.

Vander Ploog of Troy finds an open lane after a catch.

Troy running back Caleb Huss powers for yards vs. Fullerton

Devin Lamboy of Fullerton holds on to the ball as Hayden Sanchez of Troy defends.

Troy's Ethan Mundt breaks loose against Fullerton.

Fullerton's Deshawn Cobbs (No. 5) carries the ball as Troy's Hayden Sanchez defends.

Troy (3-3, 1-0) was led by quarterback Rudy Alcala, who completed 12 of 17 passes for 159 yards and a TD; Ethan Mundt, who rushed for 135 yards on 17 carries with two touchdowns and Caleb Huss, who rushed for 65 yards and a touchdown.

Vander Ploog had four catches for 86 yards, Declan Kai Healey four for 21 and a TD and Mundt four for 52.

Fullerton Coach Richard Salazar indicated he was also proud of his team’s effort.

“This was a good old fashion league rivalry game,” he said. “I am proud of our football program. I am proud of my coaches. I would like to thank the boosters, administration, AD, student body family and friends for their continued support.  

“The team was resilient. They left it all out there just came up short. It was an exciting football game. At the end of the day did the sun shine this morning. On to the next game.”

Quarterback Ryan Reger led the Indians (2-4, 0-1) completing 15 of 23 passes for 220 yards and three touchdowns.

“Ryan had a awesome game commanding the offense,” Salazar said. “Our (line) blocked well. Garrett Chew, David Williams and Aidan Zavala had great tackles all night. We were gashed a couple of times on the isolation plays. Dallas Padron came up with a huge interception in the fourth quarter to get us the game tying score.”

Zach Fany had six catches for 78 yards and a touchdown and Malachi Meni three catches for 47 yards and two touchdowns.