By Jim Shilander
Like a boa constrictor, San Juan Hills slowly, methodically, took the life out of Laguna Hills Friday, as the Stallions ran their overall record to 6-1 and defeated the Hawks 29-3 to earn their first Sea View League win of the year.
The Stallions defense held the Haws to under 200 yards for the game, including just 91 on the ground. On the other side, the Stallions rushing attack gained over 200 yards, which opened up success later in the game with the play-action pass.
The Stallions’ third drive provided the game’s first score. After starting at their own 18, the Stallions used runs by quarterback Jacob Gibson and running back Brad Kremer to move deep into Hawks territory, leading to Mike Miscione scoring from one-yard out. A tricky two-point conversion pass to Garrett Cook then put the Stallions up 8-0, which proved to be all the scoring they would need on the night.
Taking over in good position after a three-and-out, the Stallions scored again, with Kremer racing through the defense for a 39-yard score and a 15-0 lead.
Two drives later, the Hawks mounted their one sustained drive of the game, culminating in a field goal just before half.
Any thought of a Laguna Hills comeback was stuffed on the Stallions’ second drive of the game. Kremer (108 yards rushing) and Gibson (79 yards) again teamed to run the Stallions down the field, but this time, Gibson passed his way into the end zone, hitting Marco Cianciola for 27 yards and a 22-3 lead.
With both teams sticking to the ground, the third and fourth quarters nearly flew by, but The Stallions did add one last score with just over a 1:30 left in the game. Gibson found Matthew Mucerino open by 10 yards behind the Hawk defenders on a play-action pass, leading to a 56-yard scoring strike.
In limited opportunities, Gibson was sharp through the air, connecting with receivers for 109 yards and two scores on nine completions.
The Stallions will take the win into their bye week. They return to league play with an October 25 game against Aliso Niguel.
