Story by Nicolette Sarmiento
Editor-in-Chief
MISSION VIEJO–On a pass over the middle from quarterback Rio Ruiz to Adam Sanchez in the second quarter, a referee inadvertently made the tackle on Sanchez, sending both to the ground.
This was not the only tumble that caused the Lancers’ downfall. On the next play, Ruiz threw an interception that set the Santa Margarita Eagles up for a touchdown. The touchdown gave the Eagles a 24-7 lead which eventually turned into a 45-21 loss for the Lancers.
What was supposed to be the Lancers’ chance to prove they belonged in the playoffs turned into a turnover-filled first half.
Amat had several opportunities to take control of the game, but they did not capitalize. Instead, Ruiz threw two interceptions, which the Eagles converted into a 17-point lead at the end of the first half.
The Lancers’ offense tried to get back into the game early in the second half, cutting the Eagles’ lead to three. However, the Eagles took advantage of the Lancers’ undersized defense, pulling away in the fourth quarter.
[More to come]
