Written by Matt Van Bergen / Sports Editor
RANCHO CUCAMONGA- Four turnovers and failed two-point conversions led to a Lancers’ loss to the Rancho Cucamonga Cougars, 32-29, at Los Osos High School on Friday night.
The Cougars got off on a great start in the first quarter scoring 17 unanswered points, while sophomore Trevon Sidney and seniors Koa Haynes and Adrian Ortega each fumbled for the Lancers.
The Lancers finally cracked the scoreboard to start the second quarter on an 11-yard pass from Haynes to junior Brandon Arconado.
On the next possession, seniors Chris Prieto and Nick Bohorquez sacked the Cougars’ Gage Pucci in the end zone, resulting in two points for the Lancers, 17-9.
The Lancers took the lead right before the end of the first half, scoring on junior Anthony Camargo’s rushing touchdown and a 35-yard pass from Haynes to Sidney, but failed on both two-point conversions, making the score 21-17.
The Lancers carried their momentum into the second half by forcing an early turnover, a fumble recovery by Sidney, but could not capitalize on the opportunity.
The Lancer defense came right back out and forced an intentional grounding in the end zone which resulted in two more points for the Lancers, extending their lead, 23-17.
The Lancers made a huge goal line stand, stopping the Cougars on four running plays from within five yards of the end zone with 9:36 left in the game.
Amat’s senior Jacob Valle caught a pass from Haynes, shook off two potential tacklers, and ran 36 yards to the end zone, putting the pressure on the Cougars. However, they failed another two-point conversion.
The Cougars’ offense finally woke up, scoring on a 16-yard touchdown pass with 5:28 left.
After a Haynes’ pass was deflected and intercepted, the Cougars struck quick on a 30-yard pass and converted on the two-point try, taking the lead, 32-29.
The Cougars missed a field goal late down the stretch, giving the Lancers the ball at their own 25-yard line with 0:40 left and no timeouts.
However, there would be no miracle and the Lancers suffered their first loss of the season.
The Lancers (2-1) will return home to play the Charter Oak Chargers (0-2) in a non-league battle.
