by Cesar Rivas-Sandoval
LA VERNE, Calif. - In a Saturday night clash that set the stage for an exciting season opener, the University of La Verne Leopards and the Willamette University Bearcats battled it out on the gridiron, with the Bearcats ultimately securing a hard-fought 21-24 victory. The game unfolded with all the drama and intensity that fans had eagerly anticipated.
Early on, the Leopards roared to life, dominating the first quarter and putting up 14 points on the scoreboard. It was a promising start to their season, showcasing their offensive prowess, with one of those touchdowns coming from a spectacular interception return for a touchdown by linebacker De Lante' Moore.
However, their enthusiasm was quickly met with a fierce response from the Bearcats in the second quarter. The Bearcats managed to score 17 points during this period, with one of those touchdowns resulting from a dazzling interception return for a touchdown by Willamette University's DB Landon Waters. These defensive plays added a layer of unpredictability to the game, highlighting the tenacity of both teams' defensive units.
As the game progressed, the defenses continued to shine, particularly during a scoreless third quarter. It was a testament to the determination and strategic adjustments made by the defensive players on both sides.
In the fourth quarter, the offenses came alive once more, with each team securing a crucial touchdown. The back-and-forth action intensified the excitement, with every snap carrying the potential to change the game's outcome. In the end, the game's final score was decided by just a three-point margin, a testament to the closely contested nature of the matchup.
The Leopards had their own standout performers on both sides of the ball. On defense, linebacker Moore made his presence felt with seven total tackles, three tackles for loss, two quarterback hurries, and a game-changing interception returned for a touchdown in the first quarter. Linebacker Oscar Montenegro also contributed with seven total tackles and an interception, while Aiden Clinton secured an interception of his own.
On the offensive side, freshman Jonathan Berus led the rushing efforts with 10 attempts for 30 yards. Meanwhile, Andre Maldonado, a second-year player who played both quarterback and running back, rushed for 23 yards on 11 attempts but faced challenges in the passing game, going 0-2 with an interception. Wide receiver #1 Juan Gutierrez emerged as the top target for the Leopards, making seven catches for 48 yards.
Willamette University's top performers included quarterback Micah Ho'Omanawanui, who threw for 9 completions on 22 attempts for 78 yards, and running back Gabriel Herrera, who carried the ball 22 times for an impressive 132 rushing yards. Wide receiver Tyler Epefanio played a significant role in the passing game, hauling in 5 catches for 57 yards. On the defensive side, DB Landon Waters showcased his ball-hawking skills with two interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown, and another pass breakup. #43 La'Akea Like led in tackles with 8, adding 1 tackle for loss and 1 sack. The Bearcats' defense as a whole was relentless, sacking three different ULV quarterbacks a total of 7 times, resulting in a loss of 45 yards for the Leopards.
In the grand scheme of this thrilling contest, every play and every yard counted. The Bearcats' defense and key offensive contributions ultimately secured their hard-fought 21-24 victory. Notably, the game was also marked by penalty issues, with both teams accumulating a total of 20 penalties for over 180 yards. The flags flew as the intensity of the game escalated, creating an atmosphere of tension and anticipation.
This Saturday night football showdown set the tone for the season, leaving fans eager for more action-packed games ahead. While the outcome favored the Bearcats, both teams showcased their skills, determination, and the potential for an exciting season. Football enthusiasts that packed Ortmayer Stadium couldn't have asked for a more thrilling season opener under the lights. The standing room only crowd has an exciting season to look forward to.
The Leopards will next see action September 16th on the road when they travel to Tacoma, WA to take on the Loggers of Puget Sound. Kick off is schedule for 1 pm.
(photo by @flicksbyCinco)
