Warriors lose home opener

On Friday, September 15, the Fallbrook Warriors hosted the Temecula Valley Golden Bears for their exciting home opener before a large and loud crowd. The game had many highlights; however, the Warriors lost by a score of 26-15. While the score was not to their liking, the Fallbrook faithful were treated to a good physical game, an active band and a boisterous student cheering section.

In the first half the Warrior offense looked strong as they made big plays to get on the Bears’ side of the field; however, they could not capitalize on their scoring opportunities, missing two field goals. The Warrior defense looked good as they held the Bears to only six points in the first half. Highlights of the first half of play included 79 yards rushing by Cody McDole, a pass from Holt to Aaron Akins for 17 yards and two consecutive passes from Holt to John Philibert for 12 and 13 yards. Another big offensive play was a 23-yard pass from Holt to Matt Napier. The defensive highlights were a key fourth down stop and blocked PAT by Devin Welsh. The score at the half was Fallbrook 0, Temecula Valley 6.

The Warriors put up two scores in the second half but could not stop the solid running attack of the Golden Bears. The Bears were able to control the clock most of the half but the Warriors kept on fighting. The second half was highlighted by a perfect 60-yard touchdown pass from Holt to Nick Hayes, who never broke stride on his way to the end zone. Following another change of possession, a heads-up steal of the ball by Alderez Siaton led to an exhausting 62-yard sprint to the Bears’ 9 yard line. Hayes then scampered the remaining 9 yards for the touchdown. The Warriors then converted the two-point conversion to end their scoring for the night.

The Warriors had very few penalties on the night and never quit playing hard, which should lead to continued improvement and ready them for multiple victories in league play. Some of the Warriors top performers were Will Evans (6 tackles), Siaton (8 tackles), Jake Ware (6 tackles), McDole (87 yards rushing), Holt (6 of 13 for 123 yards) and Hayes (2 touchdowns). The game was exciting and a great learning experience for the young Warriors. The Warriors need your support on September 29 against Poway. There is no game this week, as the Warriors have a bye.