Perfection: Petaluma aims to join exclusive club

by PrepSports
Posted by Staff Writer Eric Branch:

With a win against Healdsburg on Friday night, Petaluma will finish the regular season 10-0 and join some exclusive company. In the past 30 years, only 10 North Bay League or Sonoma County League teams have had perfect regular seasons.

Petaluma would become the first SCL school to go 10-0 since Healdsburg did it in 1995. Healdsburg coach Tom Kirkpatrick is one of three SCL or NBL coaches with at least two perfect regular seasons since 1979. Ed Lloyd did it three times in 1983 and 1984 at Cardinal Newman and in 1990 at Piner.

Healdsburg also went 10-0 in 1987, Kirkpatricks first year at the school. Montgomerys Jason Franci went 10-0 in 1998 and 2004.
Petalumas Steve Ellison would join Kirkpatrick and Franci with a win Friday. Ellison led Petaluma to a 10-0 regular season in 1989.
Heres a look at the perfect regular seasons since 1979:

2008: Cardinal Newman, 10-0
Finished: 13-1, lost to St. Bonaventure, 28-6, in Division III state title game.

2004: Montgomery, 10-0
Finished: 13-0, beat Casa Grande, 23-10, in the NCS 3A title game.

2002: Rancho Cotate, 10-0
Finished: 13-0, beat Montgomery, 34-10, in NCS 3A title game.

1998: Montgomery, 10-0
Finished: 12-1, lost to Marin Catholic, 37-0, in NCS 3A title game.

1995: Healdsburg, 10-0
Finished: 12-1, lost to Cardinal Newman, 12-9, in the NCS 2A title game.

1990: Piner, 10-0
Finished: 12-1, lost to De La Salle, 49-24, in NCS Class 3A title game.

1989: Petaluma, 10-0
Finished: 11-1, lost to Marin Catholic, 23-12, in NCS playoffs.

1987: Healdsburg, 10-0
Finished: 10-1, lost to Marin Catholic 20-13, in first round of NCS 2A playoffs.

1984: Cardinal Newman, 10-0
Finished: 12-1, lost to De La Salle, 39-20, in NCS 2A title game.

1983: Cardinal Newman, 10-0
Finished: 12-1, lost to Miramonte, 16-13, in NCA 2A finals.







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Championship Friday for local teams

By JOHN JACKSON
ARGUS-COURIER SPORTS EDITOR
Published: Wednesday, November 11, 2009

The 2009 high school football season has come down to one championship Friday night. Of course, Friday night isn’t the end. Petaluma, Casa Grande, St. Vincent and Tomales will all begin a second season next week in the North Coast Section playoffs.

Friday's games
Healdsburg (6-3) at Petaluma (9-0), 7:30 p.m.
Casa Grande (8-1) at El Molino (2-7), 7:30 p.m.
St. Vincent (7-2) at Cloverdale (8-1), 7:30 p.m.

But Friday night will determine regular-season champions.

Tomales has already clinched its crown and will rest and prepare for the playoffs.

Petaluma is on the verge of something very special. A win in their home game against Healdsburg will complete an undefeated regular season for the Trojans and give them outright ownership of the Sonoma County League championship.

Casa Grande is on the outside hoping to get in. The Gauchos have lost only one game all season, but that was to Petaluma. Unless Healdsburg upsets the Trojans, it won’t matter what the Gauchos do in their game at El Molino. At stake is more than a title for Casa. On the line is a string of six straight won or shared SCL championships.

Things are clear for St. Vincent’s Mustangs, as they play at Cloverdale Friday night. Both teams are undefeated in North Central League I South play. The winner is league champion. The loser settles for second place.

Petaluma near perfection

Taking the final step to perfection won’t be easy for the Trojans, who are seeking to become the first Petaluma team to go undefeated since 1989.

Healdsburg is 6-3 on the season and, until they were beaten 25-14 by Casa Grande last week, had its own hopes of sharing in the SCL title.

Even in the loss to the Gauchos, the Greyhounds showed they could play with the Redwood Empire’s elite teams, leading Casa at the half, 14-6, and remaining in the game right up until a win-clinching fourth-quarter Gaucho touchdown.

Healdsburg throws another outstanding quarterback at a Petaluma pass defense that thus far has met every challenge. Killian Collins completed 18 of 25 passes for 165 yards and a touchdown against the Gauchos. He was also intercepted three times, and picks are a Petaluma specialty with Dalton Johnson, Chris Kane, Joe Soares and Drew Pawlan particularly adept at thievery.

That Trojan secondary will again be tested by a duo of outstanding receivers. Tanner Walker had eight catches against the Gauchos and Thomas Kozel added four more.

Main workhorse when Healdsburg stays on the ground is Dylan Cattalini, and he could be dangerous if the Trojans concentrate too intently on stopping Collins’ passes.

By contrast, Petaluma is more a ground-bound team — but it is a ground attack capable of striking from long distance at any time.

Windsor, last week in a 55-21 loss to the Trojans, concentrated on stopping Sean Sullivan, and he went 37 yards for a touchdown the third time he touched the football.

With the Jaguars dogging Sullivan, fullback Ricky Sims rushed for 167 yards and three touchdowns. Included in his explosion was a 63-yard run.

Quarterback Mike Russell is also capable of breaking long runs out of the Trojans’ triple-option offense. He seldom throws, but when he does pass, he makes it hurt.

Last week against Windsor, he threw just three times, completing two, one for a touchdown. His only incompletion was a pass that was dropped in the end zone.

Casa scoreboard watching

Casa Grande’s Gauchos, 8-1 on the season, can be excused for doing a little scoreboard watching as they play in Forestville against El Molino’s Lions.

However, the Gauchos still have to take care of their own business. A Healdsburg win at Petaluma won’t do the Gauchos any good unless they win against an El Molino team that is just 2-7 for the season, but always dangerous on its home turf.

Casa Grande will try to rest leading rusher Kahlil Keys, still nursing a bruised ankle, but the Gauchos’ running game is still on strong legs. Junior Javonnie Oden, in a game the Gauchos had to have, rushed for 151 yards in a 25-14 win over Healdsburg last week.

El Molino’s Lions aren’t exactly toothless.

Quarterback Mike Pierson has passed for 14 touchdowns and run for two more.

Running back Tom Krausmann has four touchdowns rushing.

SV’s game of the season

Friday night’s game at Cloverdale is the biggest St. Vincent will play during the regular season. Both teams are going to the NCS playoffs, St. Vincent in Division V, where it is the defending champion, and Cloverdale in Division III. What is at stake this week is the NCL I South championship.

Both teams are 4-0 in league play going into the game. St. Vincent is 7-2 overall, while Cloverdale is 8-1. The only loss for the Eagles was to Middletown, 27-17, a team that thumped St. Vincent, 56-23.

But St. Vincent has dramatically improved its defense since that game. In a winning streak that has now reached five games, the Mustangs have allowed just 25 points and 12 of those came last week when Kelseyville scored on the last play of the game, as St. Vincent won handily, 35-12. The Mustangs have outscored opponents 128-25 during that stretch.

Both teams have well-balanced offenses. Kris Farinha, St. Vincent’s all-time leading rusher, has more than 1,300 yards running this season, and St. Vincent quarterback Josh Wheless has also passed for close to 1,000 yards.

Cloverdale’s running game is more a two-man show with David Whitaker and Javier Eligo combining for more than 1,000 yards.

The Eagles can also throw, with quarterback Jerod Domenichelli passing for more than 900 yards.





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Senior-led Dragons overtake Analy

By Steven Serafini INDEX-TRIBUNE SPORTS EDITOR


Led by a group of determined seniors on, so appropriately, "senior night," Sonoma Valley High School's varsity football boys battled through mud, fog, injuries to their top two running backs, and a potent offensive Sonoma County League opponent to end an up-and-down regular season on a high note.

Trailing an Analy team that has put up some big scores this season 19-10 at the half, the Dragons - who had lost their top-two running backs to injuries, standout sophomore Yahya Muslim in the second quarter, and always-tough-running senior Mario Gomez early in the second half - finally got down to business in the third quarter. The senior pass-and-catch combination of quarterback Steven Murden and wide-receiver Tyler Rose hooked up for two touchdowns, with a safety in between for a 26-19 lead.

But, after the visiting Tigers scored a touchdown to pull to within one point of a tie, Sonoma's defense stopped their two-point conversion attempt to preserve the lead at 26-25. A late Murden touchdown and a booted point-after by senior place-kicker Jordan Winslow preserved Friday night's 33-25 SCL victory at Arnold Field.

With their first home win of the season, the Sonoma gridders - who have a bye this week, which is the final weekend of the high school regular season - finish with 4-6 and 2-4 overall and SCL records, respectively.

But the Dragons still have a glimmer of hope for a postseason appearance because of their 3-2 mark in Division 3 play, which puts them on the bubble of the North Coast Section playoffs. "The team really stepped up in the second half, especially the seniors playing in their last home game. It was some of our best football of the season," said Sonoma head coach Mick O'Meara, who's assisted by defensive coordinator Mike Mulas and assistant coaches Mike Sangiacomo, Steve Sangiacomo, Damien Magnani and Chris Hoke. "I told them after the game that they just won themselves another week of practice to stay sharp just in case we do make the NCS field. We are definitely on the bubble, but you never know what's going to happen in the seeding meetings, so we'll continue to prepare to play another game."

Before Friday night's varsity kickoff, Sonoma honored its football, cheerleading and pep-band seniors and their parents.

The Dragon football seniors include Murden, Rose, Winslow, Gomez, Evan Murden, Braden Lyons, Dominic DeMartini, Kris Patrick, Richie Merlo, Stephen Brooks, Charlie Watson, Christian Weiss, Grant Noble, Cody Montgomery, Nate Swanson, Nathanael Hargitt, Michael Benson, Alex Gray, Alex Linares, Luis Garcia, Garrett Kracke, Victor Vasquez, Ricardo Tinoco, Jason Gonzalez and David Linares.

Sonoma's cheerleading seniors are Amber Daly (team captain), Eden Anuskewicz, Vanessa Hubbnette, Mireya Olivares and Johanna Rivas.

The Sonoma pep band seniors include Shane Burns, David DeSmet, Haley Gruber and Ronald William Perkins.

Leading Sonoma was Steven Murden's outstanding all-around game at both quarterback and defensive back, which included seven pass completions on 20 attempts for 85 yards and two touchdowns, 13 carries for 87 yards rushing and one touchdown, a pass interception and a fumble recovery.

Sonoma was also led by Rose's five catches for 65 yards, two touchdowns and one pass interception; Gomez's 21 carries for 92 yards rushing and one touchdown; Winslow's four extra-point kicks and 29-yard field goal; Merlo's two pass interceptions; and by Merlo; one pass interception by Rose; and Brooks' key quarterback sack.

Sonoma's junior varsity football team was defeated 20-0 by visiting Analy in its season finale Friday night, while the Dragon freshman gridders - who end their season hosting Ukiah at 5 p.m. this Thursday, Nov. 12, at Arnold Field - were edged 8-0 by El Molino last Thursday in Forestville.

Comprising the 2009 Sonoma jayvee football team - directed by head coach Bob Midgley and assistant coaches Justin Weaver and Richard Blanchard - were David Ake, Armando Baron, Eric Clouse, Collin Clyde, Juan Contreras, Samuel Gegner, Josh Heiser, Issac Hernandez, Michael Hernandez, Spencer Hernandez, Tyler Johnson, Samuel Keechler, Chandler Kelley, Robert Livingston, Orlando Martinez, Austin McElroy, Zachary Miller, Samuel Morgan, Nicholas Mysliwczyk, Jorge Oros, Taylor Patterson, Choun Pha, Francisco Ramirez, Eamon Shine, Kyle Simmons, Alex Stephan, Christopher Swanson, Anthony Talmadge, Chris Walker and John Wittbrodt.

Dragons of the Week

The Dragons of the Week in Sonoma's 33-25 season-ending SCL win over Analy Friday evening at Arnold Field were Steven Murden, Jordan Winslow and Tyler Rose.

Murden, a 5-foot, 9-inch, 160-pound senior quarterback and defensive back, had one of the best all-around games in recent memory, passing for two touchdowns, rushing for 87 yards and one touchdown, intercepting a pass, recovering a fumble and being the holder for four extra points and a field goal.

Winslow, a 5-10, 160-pound senior place-kicker and running back, was four-for-four in extra-point kicks, booted a 29-yard field goal and, stepping in after injuries sidelined two running backs, did a solid job as the main ball-carrier in the second half.

Rose, a 6-3, 180-pound senior wide receiver and defensive back, had five pass receptions for 65 yards, including 44- and seven-yard touchdown catches, and he intercepted a pass.

The Dragons of the Week are sponsored by Eraldi's Men's Wear and Shoes, and Broadway Market.





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Gauchos escape Healdsburg with 25-14 win


By GEORGE HAIRE
FOR THE ARGUS-COURIER
Published: Friday, November 6, 2009

For most of the football game at Healdsburg on Friday, visiting Casa Grande rapped at the kennel end-zone gates without much success. Down the stretch, however, the Gauchos regrouped with enough energy to score three late touchdowns, and overhauled the upset-minded Greyhounds, 25-14, at Recreation Park.

Capitalizing on an economic passing game in the early stages, the fired-up Hounds managed a 14-6 halftime lead behind senior quarterback Killian Collins, much to the delight of a big, senior-night crowd.

Collins and his mates got the most out of short, flat passes that were converted to first downs on two touchdown drives in the first half. Collins hooked up with Thomas Kozel on a 23-yard scoring play in the first period, when the wide receiver broke away from two Casa defenders along the sideline.

The Gauchos bounced back quickly on the running and receiving of Makana Garrigan.

Garrigan returned the Healdsburg kickoff to nearly midfield, and it took only three passes by Nick Sherry to chop into the lead. The third pass was a 39-yard effort to Garrigan for a touchdown, and the Gauchos trailed 7-6.

Lanky Hound free safety Ian Gallagher intercepted a pass on the next Casa possession in the second quarter, and Healdsburg quickly took advantage of excellent field position on the Casa Grande 23-yard line.

Four consecutive running plays by Dylan Cattalini got the job done. After rushing for one first down, Cattalini broke completely free to score from the 9-yard line. The PAT kick made it 14-6.

It’s not like the Gauchos did not have chances to bounce back. Three times they advanced the ball inside the Healdsburg 25 only to be denied on failed fourth-down plays.

In the third period, it happened for the final time when a Sherry pass intended for tight end Tyler White was overthrown in the end zone from the 16-yard line.

On the next offensive series, the Gauchos took advantage of great field position to cut into the lead. Two ground gainers by Javonnie Oden and a key keeper by Sherry set up the touchdown. Oden got the call from the 8-yard line, and he went in untouched. Sherry was sacked on a 2-point PAT try, and it was 14-12.

The fourth period belonged to Garrigan. Seemingly all over the gridiron all night, he went into the stanza with 11 tackles and an interception. There was more fuel in his tank for the stretch run.

Garrigan’s second interception not only stopped a Greyhound drive, but he added a nifty a 33-yard return to give his team another scoring opportunity with good field position.

Sherry didn’t give up on his intentions to hook up with White. Two consecutive completions between the two resulted in a Gaucho touchdown that gave them the lead for the first time in the game with only eight minutes left on the clock. The scoring pass was hauled in by a streaking White from 25 yards out.

The Hounds had one last growl, and they marched to a couple of first downs before Garrigan grabbed his third interception from a kneeling position before the Healdsburg receiver could turn around.

“What else can I say about Garrigan?” asked Casa Grande head coach Trent Herzog. “I think he had at least a dozen tackles and three interceptions tonight. We were lucky to get out of here alive.”

Herzog’s Gauchos nailed the lid shut with a time-consuming 83-yard march that kept the Healdsburg offensive unit off the field. Oden took advantage of some good work up front to spearhead the drive with several first-down runs.

Almost fittingly, blocking back Allan Vargas got the call for a 2-yard touchdown run with seconds remaining. Vargas blocked well throughout the game, and made several important stops on defense.

“Credit our offensive line in the second half. They really got the job done,” said Herzog, “Oden ran very well.”

“We could have played Kahlil Keys, but he wasn’t 100 per cent. We would like to keep him out of the game next week against El Molino. He has a deep tissue bruise in his upper ankle. He will definitely be ready for the playoffs.”

Casa Grande took sole possession of second place in the Sonoma County League by improving to 4-1 and 8-1 overall. Healdsburg falls to 3-2 and 6-3 for the season.

Garrigan wound up with 13 tackles and three interceptions, while Vargas made 11 stops in another workmanlike performance. Conner Waggoner chipped in with seven stops.

Sherry threw for 162 yards and a pair of touchdowns on 12 completions in 19 attempts. White was the leading receiver, with five catches for 63 yards and a touchdown.

Oden finished strong with 151 yards rushing. Most of his best work was in the second half, when the Gauchos took control of the game.

Collins completed 18 passes for 165 yards and a touchdown for Healdsburg.

Healdsburg salvaged part of the evening when the Hounds pounded Casa Grande 47-0 in the junior varsity game.




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Trojans try to stay step ahead


Published: Wednesday, November 4, 2009

A wild card, or more appropriately, a wild dog has emerged in the Sonoma County League football race.


Healdsburgs Greyhounds, facing back-to-back games against Casa Grande and Petaluma, are right in the middle of what was initially shaping up as a three-team race between the Trojans, Gauchos and Windsor Jaguars.

The big game this week remains Petalumas visit to Windsor, but Casa Grandes trip to Healdsburg also has its share of significance.

As it stands going into Friday nights encounters, Petalumas Trojans are unbeaten both overall (8-0) and in league (4-0). Casa Grande, Healdsburg and Windsor are all a step behind at 3-1 in league. Casas only loss was to Petaluma, 40-14. Healdsburgs only slip was against Windsor, 20-13. Windsors loss was to Casa Grande, 31-14.

It makes this weeks games very interesting and very important.

Meanwhile, St. Vincent steps out of North Central League I South play to host Kelseyville from the NCL I North in an interlock game, while Tomales, with the NCL II championship locked up, plays a tough home game against Salesian from Richmond.

Tough test for Troy

Petaluma Highs Trojans have passed every test so far, but Friday nights might be the toughest as they take their unbeaten record onto Windsors new turf.

Casa Grande pretty well stifled Windsor last week, handing the Jaguars their second loss in eight games, but Windsor has talent and the Jaguars love playing at home, especially now that they have their new all-weather turf in place.

Petaluma will not have to contend with Cameron Erion, who rushed for more than 400 yards against it last season. He is out for the season with an injury. The Trojan defense will still have to contain dangerous senior quarterback D.J. King.

Casa Grande coach Trent Herzog called King one of the best two-way football players in the Redwood Empire. The Jaguars, with Steven Hutchison, Cj Landwehr and King, are capable of putting together time-consuming drives.

But in crunch time, the Trojans will be faced with stopping the threat of King either passing or running, with Jimmy Reed his favorite target.

King and company provide just one more challenge for a Trojan secondary, anchored by Dalton Johnson, Chris Kane, Joe Soares and interception-minded Drew Pawlan.

Every game is big

Casa Grande Highs Gauchos have to do their thing and hope for a little help from either Windsor or Healdsburg as they try to catch Petaluma and gain a share of a seventh straight Sonoma County League championship.

Doing their thing Friday night wont be easy. Healdsburg is always a tough opponent and playing the Greyhounds on their dusty home turf doubles the challenge. Healdsburg is 6-2 overall, with league wins over Analy (21-7), Sonoma Valley (31-8) and El Molino (41-27) offsetting its lone league loss to Windsor by a touchdown.

The Casa Grande defense, which occasionally has given up a big play, faces two potential touchdown busters in Hounds quarterback Killan Collins and running back Dylan Cattalini.

Cattalini ripped up El Molino in a 41-27 Greyhound win last week, rushing for 235 yards and two touchdowns. He also caught two touchdown passes from Collins, who threw for 163 yards, completing nine of 17 passes.

Good news for Casa Grande is that all-league running back Kahlil Keys, who sat out the second half of last weeks win over Windsor, suffered only a deep bruise and is expected to be available Friday night.




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El Molino footballers fall to Hounds in 41-27



El Mo enters bye week; Analy travels to Sonoma this Friday

by Greg Clementi
Sports Editor
Published: Wednesday, November 4, 2009

FORESTVILLE Football is a game of respect, not just for your opponent, but also for yourself and your teammates.

The Lions (2-7, 0-5) gained a fair measure of that valuable commodity in Friday nights gridiron clash in Forestville, giving Homecoming fans and visiting Healdsburg all they wanted before eventually falling in a wild one, 41-27.

Although disappointing, Fridays loss to the Greyhounds was arguably the Lions best performance of the season, and went a long way toward restoring the teams confidence.

I never want to say that Im happy with a loss, but I was proud of the way our guys played, said El Mo head coach Mike Roan. It was disappointing not to come away with a win, but I was glad to see us play a very physical, fundamentally sound game.

El Molino will enjoy a bye this week before returning to host Casa Grande in the season finale on Nov. 13, while Analy travels to Sonoma this Friday, Nov. 6.

Superman was in the house on Halloweens Eve, masquerading in Lions red and black, and wearing number 10 on his chest. Junior quarterback Michael Pierson, whos emerged as one of most gifted players in the North Bay, enjoyed the best night of his high school career. The second-year signal-caller finished the night with 28 completions on 44 attempts for 358 yards and three touchdowns.

In addition, the Lions got a couple of noteworthy games from their potent receiving corps, including junior Jordan Nordby and sophomore Chet The Jet Lambert. The tandem accounted for 258 receiving yards and three scores.

Healdsburg countered with its own super-hero in running back Dillon Cattalini, who turned in a performance for the ages with 36 carries for a season-best 235 rushing yards and four touchdowns.

The Lions set the tone in the opening period, as Pierson directed an impressive early drive that culminated in a 21-yard scoring pass to Nordby. Josh Hoener added the PAT kick for a 7-0 lead.

Healdsburg came right back on its next possession, as senior quarterback Killian Collins led his team on a march capped by a three-yard touchdown plunge by Cattalini to knot the game at 7-7.

The Hounds surged into the lead early in the second period, as Cattalini hauled in a pass from Collins and scampered 31 yards to the house for a 14-7 advantage. Pierson finished off a superb first half, hooking up with Nordby again on a 15-yard scoring strike to forge a 14-all tie at the half.

The Hounds appeared to gain control early in the third quarter when Cattalini busted loose for a 60-yard touchdown and a 21-14 edge. But the Lions would answer on the next series with a 58-yard pass-play from Pierson to Lambert. The PAT kick failed and the Hounds led, 21-20. Healdsburg would finish off a wild third quarter with a one-yard keeper from Collins for a 27-20 lead heading into the final period.

Riding a career-best performance from their quarterback, the Lions clawed back early in the fourth quarter. Pierson marched his team down the field with surgeon-like skill, finishing off a nice drive with a 10-yard scoring strike to H-back Joe Douglass. The successful PAT kick knotted the game at 27-all.

The opportunistic Healdsburg defense would come up big in the games final minutes, picking off a pass to set up a five-yard, go-ahead touchdown strike. Cattalini would effectively ice the Hounds victory with his fourth score in the games waning minutes, this one coming on a 12-yard run for the eventual, 41-27 win.

El Molino offensive stats

Passing- Pierson (28-44, 358 yards, 3 TDs)

Rushing- Jeff Rollings (12-31 yards)

Receiving- Nordby (10-141 yards, 2 TDs), Lambert (6-117, TD), Douglass (5-43, TD), Garrit Afman (4-27), Dakota Lerner-Ross (2-25).

Defensive stats

Afman (7 tackles, assist), Lerner-Ross (6 tackles, assist), Douglass (4 tackles, 5 assists), Nordby (4 tackles), Max Gram (3 tackles), Jared Garner (2 tackles, 3 assists), Matt Howard (2 tackles, 3 assists), Hayden Gutsch (2 tackles, assist, 2 sacks), Dylan Licciardo (2 tackles), Rollings (2 tackles), Aaron Vierra (tackle, assist), Angel Razo (2 assists), and one tackle apiece from Gary Hill, and Chet Lambert.




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Sims runs Trojans over Sonoma

By GEORGE HAIRE
FOR THE ARGUS-COURIER
Published: Friday, October 30, 2009

Fullback Ricky Sims rushed for 156 yards and four touchdowns as Petaluma made quick work of the mistake-prone Sonoma Dragons, 34-0, at Durst Field on Friday. It was the eighth consecutive win for the undefeated Trojans, and the 200th victory in the career of veteran football coach Steve Ellison.

Ellison acknowledge many well wishers following the win, including the reading of a special message of congratulations from long-time friend and successful professional coach Mike Holmgren.

Sims played only a portion of the second half, but put an exclamation mark on the solid ground game displayed by the Trojans with a 37-yard touchdown run before the reserves cleaned up the rest of the way. The fourth scoring run by the 215-pound senior capped a 99-yard march by Petaluma after it had rushed to a 27-0 halftime lead.

From the opening kickoff, Sonoma found a way to shoot itself in the foot. The Dragons turned the ball over five times on two fumbles and three pass interceptions, and were flagged for enough penalties to cripple most drives until the final seconds of the game.

Sims scored on runs of 3, 15, and 5 yards in the first half. Quarterback Mike Russell also got solidly into the ground attack by galloping 40 yards untouched for a touchdown in the second quarter.

Ball hawking defenders Chris Kane, Joe Soares and junior Tyler Tuck all turned in interceptions for Petaluma, while Dalton Johnson and Justin Wambold made big plays on Dragon fumbles.

Overall, it was a crunching ground game by the Trojans that made the difference. Petaluma ran for 349 total yards behind some crisp blocking up front and the ball handling of Russell, which allowed runners to spring free and pick up big yardage.

Sean Sullivan quietly rambled for 93 yards on only 12 carries behind the blocking of Sims and the ball skills of Russell.

Ellison has been at this business far too many seasons to allow the celebration to overshadow next weeks important game at Windsor.

They have a very good team and will be dangerous for us next Friday, he said. Many of our kids played last year when Cameron Erion went off on us. They have not forgotten that game.

Kane, linebacker Blake Olson and Wambold of the senior-dominated Trojans all had outstanding defensive games in the first three quarters.

In the final minutes, Dragon quarterback Steve Murden engineered a 70-yard drive which included three long pass completions, but the Petaluma reserves did not break inside the 10-yard line, and held on to preserve the shutout.




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Dragons crushed by Casa 41-6; unbeaten Petaluma looms tonight

Ray Sullivan Jr. | Sonoma Valley Sun



For the better part of a quarter the Sonoma Dragons were able to keep the visiting Casa Grande Gauchos high-powered offense under control Friday night at Arnold Field.

However, after a well-designed play went awry as the result of a procedure call, the Dragons hopes for an upset over Casa Grande went by the wayside as well, with the Dragons falling 41-6 in front of a festive homecoming crowd.

Two years ago on homecoming the Dragons were able to upset the Gauchos at Arnold Field to grab a share of the SCL title, but the Dragons were limited in their offensive success Friday night and the more effective Gaucho offense took control of the game in the second half.

Trailing 6-0 the Dragons seemingly executed a fake punt to perfection with junior up-back Sean Daly taking the snap and rambling for a first down deep into Gaucho territory.

Unfortunately for the Dragons, they did not have the requisite number of players on the line of scrimmage to begin the play. The mistake in the players alignment was acknowledged by the coaching staff after the game as the right call by the officials.

Following the penalty the Gauchos seized control of the contest, sprinting to 41 points while racking up 493 yards of total offense.
The Dragons were able to avoid a shutout when senior quarterback Steven Murden connected with fellow senior Cody Montgomery on a late touchdown pass. Montgomery, who has made some key receptions for the Dragons this season spoke briefly after the contest, but got right to the point.

We just need to play better, said Montgomery following the game.
The Dragons (3-5, 1-3 in the SCL) take on the Redwood Empires top-ranked team, the Petaluma Trojans (7-0, 4-0) tonight at Petalumas Durst Field at 7:30.
Defensive coordination Mike Mulas will look to draw on some past history between the teams, primarily citing that the Dragons and Trojans have always played each other close, but still had concerns over the explosive Petaluma attack.
They (Petaluma) have some weapons offensively, and they have some speed, said Mulas. We just need to keep playing hard and get some confidence.
Regardless of the outcome of Fridays game, next weeks tilt with Analy looms as a possible shot at a NCS playoff birth. If the Dragons are able to defeat Analy they would become playoff eligible for the NCS Div. III, and the win would give them three wins over other Division III opponents.





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Greyhounds set for second half of grid campaign..
Healdsburg visits El Molino this Friday

By GREG CLEMENTI
Sports Editor

The varsity football Greyhounds will begin a final push for post-season this Friday when they square off with El Molino in Forestville. Game times beginning with the JV are 5 and 7:30 p.m.

The Hounds (5-2, 2-1) should be rested and ready, fresh off a bye week that allowed the team some rehabbing after a very physical overtime loss to Windsor on Oct. 16. Healdsburg is currently tied with Casa Grande for second place in the SCL, just a game back of both Windsor and Petaluma.

The Hounds have every right to feel good about themselves at the halfway mark of the league campaign, but are no doubt mindful of the big challenge that lies ahead. The schedule gets tough after this week, with heavy dates with defending champion Casa Grande on Nov. 6 (Rec. Park), followed by the league finale on Nov. 13 at Durst Field in Petaluma.


Stat leaders

Through seven games, quarterback Killian Collins has completed 58 percent of his passes (67-114, 947 yards passing, 7 TDs, 5 INTs). His emergence as a running threat (31-99 yards, TD) has added a new wrinkle to the Healdsburg attack. The offensive line has been outstanding in both run and pass blocking.

Other offensive leaders include workhorse running back Dillon Cattalini (121-518 yards rushing, 8 TDs), and junior back Carson Seanor (37-152 yards rushing, 3 TDs). Top receivers are Tanner Walker (19-354, TD), Ian Gallagher (19- 248, 3 TDs), Cattalini (8-123), George Brush (16-170, 4 TDs), Thomas Kozel (6-138) and Nick Sweeney (3-18, TD).

Leading defenders are Cattalini (64 tackles, FR), Justin Furia (53 tackles, sack, FR), Travis Arreguin (47 tackles, FR), Gary Randolph (42 tackles, 3 sacks), Sweeney (41 tackles, 3 sacks, FR), AJ Ruiz (30 tackles, 3 sacks), Gallagher (24 tackles, 4 INTs), Walker (23 tackles, 5 INTs), Cele Fernandez (23 tackles, sack), Trey Davis (21 tackles, sack, FR), Kozel (19 tackles, INT), Dayton Hiles (17 tackles, sack), and Quaid Mancini (11 tackles, FR).

The special teams have also been a strength, with punter Frankie Renteria averaging just over 32 yards per boot, while kickoff specialist Martin Chesley has kicked 18 times for 825 yards. PAT kicker Thomas Kozel has converted 12 attempts.







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Both Lion, Tigers gridders fall in league pigskin action

by Greg Clementi
Sports Editor

The Lions and Tigers battled through a tough stretch in week three of the SCL football season, both falling to strong opponents.

The Lions suffered a 52-13 pounding in the inaugural game on Windsor’s new all-weather turf field, while the Tigers gave Petaluma a good test before falling to the Trojans, 35-21.

This Friday, Oct. 30, the Lions will entertain visiting Healdsburg in the Homecoming Game, while the Tigers enjoy a bye. Game times in Forestville starting with the JV are 5 and 7:30 p.m.


Lions fall to Windsor

The Lions (2-6, 0-4) drew a tough assignment in Friday’s game at Windsor, with the Jags fired up after a ribbon-cutting ceremony to open their new field. The contest also served as Windsor’s Homecoming Game. It was not a formula for Lion’s success.

The Jags took all suspense out of the game early, scoring touchdowns on six of seven first-half possessions to grab an insurmountable, 42-13 lead at the break.

Down 28-0 in the second quarter, the Lions got on the board midway through the period when junior quarterback Michael Pierson found big-play H-back Joe Douglass on a 30-yard touchdown strike, cutting the deficit to 28-7.

The Lions would get an 11-yard touchdown strike from Pierson to sophomore receiver Chet “The Jet” Lambert to make it a 42-13 ballgame at the break.

Trailing by 29 points in the third quarter, Windsor effectively iced the game when cornerback Michael Campbell returned his third interception of the night 64 yards to the house for a 49-13 bulge en route to an eventual, 52-13 win.

“Our lack of depth has hurt us, but we’re not making any excuses,” said El Mo coach Mike Roan. “We’ve got the potential to be a physical team but we’ve got to get better defending against the run.”



Offensive leaders

Despite four picks, Pierson turned in another solid night under center, completing 19 of 36 passes for 207 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Other offensive leaders included Lambert (6-81 yards receiving, TD), Douglass (11-23 yards rushing, 3-43 receiving, TD), Garrit Afman (5-39 yards receiving), and Dakota Lerner-Ross (3-31 yards receiving).

Tigers battle Trojans

If there is such a thing as a good loss, Analy’s 35-21 Homecoming setback to the visiting Petaluma Trojans may have been it.

The Tigers (5-3, 1-3) were sluggish out of the gate, spotting the visitors a commanding, 35-7 lead at the break. Big plays helped the Trojans gain separation, including a 74-yard scoring run from Sean Sullivan and a 57-yard interception return by Drew Pawlan. The Tigers got on the board with an 11-yard touchdown strike from quarterback Jake Zanutto to Chris Bostock for their lone score of the half.

The Tigers refused to pack it in, emerging from the halftime locker room with renewed purpose. Analy’s defense found a way to contain the Trojan’s potent option offense, allowing the Tigers to mount a mild comeback.

Analy finished off a strong second half scoring the game’s final 14 points, the first coming on a 32-yard scoring pass from Zanutto to Bostock. Sophomore safety Mark Adams capped the fireworks with a touchdown off of an 87-yard fumble recovery for the eventual final score of 35-21.

“Our kids played a good second half, and we can definitely carry that into our next game,” said Analy head coach Dan Bourdon.

Zanutto finished the night with 15 completions on 21 attempts for 145 yards, two touchdowns and two picks. Bostock hauled in eight catches for 88 yards and two scores.









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No let down for Petalumas Trojans

By JOHN JACKSON
ARGUS-COURIER SPORTS EDITOR
Published: Friday, October 23, 2009

Any question about a possible Petaluma Trojan let down following their emotional win over Casa Grande in the Egg Bowl followed by a bye week was answered on their first play from scrimmage Friday night.


Super speedster Sean Sullivan slipped around his own right end, raced 40 yards, hit warp speed and dashed another 34 for a 74-yard touchdown. Less than two minutes into their game against Analys Tigers, the Trojans led, 7-0, and never trailed.

The final score at Analys homecoming bash at Karlsen Field in Sebastopol was a deceptive, 35-21.

Petaluma all but handed Analy two touchdowns on fumbles. The score at halftime was 35-7, and so dominant were the Trojans that the Analy coaches were asking for a semi-running clock.

The win was the seventh straight for the unbeaten Trojans, who are now 3-0 in Sonoma County League play with three to go.

For the game, Petaluma rushed for 279 yards and quarterback Mike Russell was a near-perfect four of five passing for 87 yards, giving the Trojans 366 total. Analy rushed for just 40 yards and had another 145 on the passing arm of Jake Zanutto for 185 total.

Sullivan gained 155 yards on just 10 carries. In addition to his 74-yard game-starting burst, he had a zig-zag 44-yard touchdown scamper and had a potential 15-yard scoring run nullified by a penalty.

Fullback Ricky Sims bulled through the heart of the Analy defense for 54 yards and Russell ran for 40 more.

Petaluma coach Steve Ellison was pleased that the Trojans were able to survive, and actually thrive, in a game that had the potential to be very troublesome.

These games can be scary. he said. In the first half, we obviously made some big plays. No. 2 (Sullivan) is a big-play guy. He is amazing.

Our defense really gave us a good effort against an Analy team that has some pretty good weapons.

Nick Ziegenhagen and Aaron Randall on the front line, with a lot of help from far ranging linebackers Blake Olson and Dalton Berncich, completely shut down the Tiger running attack and kept pressure on Zanutto all night.

Although it got beat for two touchdown catches by Analys talented wide receiver Chris Bostock, the Petaluma secondary generally did a good job controlling a strong Tiger passing attack.

Both Dalton Johnson and Drew Pawlan had pass interceptions, with Pawlan turning his into a 52-yard scoring return.

It all added up to a Trojan celebration on Analys homecoming night.

After Sullivans initial scoring burst, Petaluma helped Analy gain a tie by fumbling the ball away at the Trojan 18-yard line. On a fourth-and-two play, Bostock slanted free over the middle to catch a 10-yard touchdown pass from Zanutto.

The 7-7 tie lasted only long enough for Johnson to race behind the Analy defense and grab a perfectly pitched pass from Russell for a 37-yard touchdown. Of Russells four pass completions, three went to Johnson for 49 yards.

On Analys next possession, Pawlan played pick six and, with Braeden Ross adding conversion kicks after each of the Petaluma touchdowns, the Trojans led 21-7 at the end of an eventful first quarter.

Less than a minute into the second period, Sullivan did his signature stop-start-zig-zag-bang-bang thing from 44 yards out to run the score to 28-7.

A hold cost the speedster a third touchdown, but that only allowed Sims his chance to score a few plays later from the 5-yard line.

At the midpoint the score was 35-7 and it was just a matter of Analy celebrating homecoming and Petaluma playing out its win.

The second half was a strange sort of thing, with the clock quickly ticking, Petaluma chewing up yards and time, and Analy doing the only scoring.

A good Analy drive of 60 yards ate up much of the third quarter and ended in frustration when an Olson sack of Zanutto forced a 27-yard field goal attempt by Sal Torres that never gained altitude, smacking into shins at the line of scrimmage.

Analy did get a score when Zanutto zipped a bullet to Bostock for a 38-yard touchdown.

The final Tiger touchdown was truly a gift.

With Sullivan on the sideline, Russell, Sims and Stephen McElroy marched the Trojans from their own 23 to the Analy 10-yard line.

At that point, with just over a minute remaining, Petalumas second-team offense came on and ran only one play a fumble on a messed-up pitch that was picked up by Analy sophomore Mark Adams, who raced 87 yards for a defensive touchdown.

It gave the Tigers, who are now 5-3 overall, but just 1-3 in league, something to cheer for on homecoming night, but did nothing to tarnish the Trojan triumph.

Next up for the Petalumans is a home encounter on Oct. 30 against Sonoma Valley.

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Sonoma's homecoming crashed by Gauchos


By Steven Serafini INDEX-TRIBUNE SPORTS EDITOR
Mon, October 26,

It was Sonoma Valley High School's homecoming Friday night at Arnold Field and, though the varsity football Dragons were the underdogs for their Sonoma County League game with five-time defending champion Casa Grande, there was hope that they could add a victory celebration to their night of festivities.

But, as the game wore on, Sonoma's hope of an upset win faded into a one-sided loss. After early opportunities to keep the game in check were detered by penalties and a lost fumble that was returned for a touchdown, the Dragons found themselves trailing a good all-around Casa team which built up a 21-0 halftime lead.

Unfortunately, Sonoma couldn't slow down the Gauchos in the second half, either, as the visitors scored on their first possession of the third quarter and rolled on to a 41-6 SCL win. The Dragons came into the game having beaten El Molino 28-20 in Forestville the week before, with their sophomore running standout, Yahya Muslim, having rushed for 216 yards and two touchdowns.

But Casa clamped down on Muslim, holding him to just 57 yards on 19 carries, and also kept sure-handed senior wide receiver Tyler Rose in check, allowing him only three catches for 17 yards. The Dragons' leading ground-gainer in the game was senior Jordan Winslow, who had 10 carries for 65 yards.

Sonoma's lone score came in the fourth quarter on a six-yard touchdown pass-play from senior quarterback Steven Murden to senior wide receiver Cody Montgomery. While a strong Casa team (6-1 overall record, 2-1 SCL) posed one big challenge, the Dragons (3-5, 1-3) face an even bigger challenge from a stronger squad this Friday, Oct. 30, when they hit the SCL road for a 7:30 p.m. showdown at Durst Field with unbeaten, first-place Petaluma (7-0, 4-0). Three weeks ago, the Trojans, who beat Analy 35-21 Friday night, routed cross-town rival Casa 40-14.

Sonoma's ailing junior varsity football team turned in a spirited effort against visiting Casa Grande Friday at Arnold Field, but ended up dropping a 26-6 decision.

The Dragon jayvees were paced by Isaac Hernandez's 40-yard touchdown run; five pass completions from quarterback Anthony Talmadge to tight end Eamon Shine for 50 yards; lineman Francisco Ramirez's strong efforts on both sides of the ball; and the defensive play of Shine, Jordan Lanning, John Wittbrodt and Choun Pha.

Sonoma's freshman football team, trailing 24-0 at the half, outplayed and shut-out Petaluma through the third and fourth quarters on the road last Thursday.

But the Dragons could muster only one touchdown in the second half and were saddled with a 24-7 loss.

Pacing Sonoma was Mike Stovall's 23-yard touchdown pass-play to running back Jonathan Amandoli; the hard running of fullback Chris Lopez; center Wyatt Casella; lineman Carlos John Engebreth; and the defense of Jessie Barrie.

The frosh Dragons host a strong Cardinal Newman team at 5 p.m. this Thursday, Oct. 29, at Arnold Field.

Dragons of the Week

The Dragons of the Week in Sonoma's 41-6 SCL loss to Casa Grande Friday evening at Arnold Field were Steven Murden, Omar Paz and Cody Montgomery.

Murden, a 5-foot, 9-inch, 160-pound senior quarterback and defensive back, came through with another solid all-around performance both on defense and offense, where he completed eight of 12 passes, including one touchdown toss and no interceptions.

Paz, a 6-2, 215-pound junior lineman, turned in a strong effort on both sides of the ball.

Montgomery, a 5-7, 150-pound senior wide receiver, made two pass receptions, including one for a six-yard touchdown.

The Dragons of the Week are sponsored by Eraldi's Men's Wear and Shoes, and Broadway Market.
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Lions and Tigers fall in league gridiron battles

West County pigskin report
by Greg Clementi
Sports Editor
Published: Wednesday, October 21, 2009

West County football fans went un-rewarded in post Apple Bowl action last week, as Analy suffered a 37-7 pounding at the hands of Casa Grande, while El Molino dropped a 28-20 decision to Sonoma.

Both teams will be looking to bounce back this Friday, Oct. 23, as the Tigers (5-2, 1-2) entertain unbeaten Petaluma at Karlson Field in the Homecoming Game, while the Lions (2-5, 0-3) visit Windsor. Kickoff times for the JV and varsity are 5 and 7:30 p.m.

Lions burned by Dragons in fourth quarter

There was no Apple Bowl hangover for the Lions on Friday against visiting Sonoma, coming agonizingly close to victory. After spotting their guests an early 14-point lead, El Mo rattled off 20 unanswered points to grab a 20-14 advantage midway through the final period.



The lead would be short-lived, as Sonoma sophomore back Yahya Muslim broke loose on a third and 15 from his own 20, racing 80 yards for a touchdown. The Dragons would add another late insurance score for the eventual, 28-20 win.

For whatever reason, we didnt come out ready to play, but I was very happy with the way we came back, said El Mo coach Mike Roan. It was a game between two evenly matched teams, and for the most part, I thought we outplayed them.

Down 14-0 midway through the second period, El Mo dodged a bullet when sophomore cornerback Chet Lambert came down with an interception in his own end zone to kill a Sonoma threat. Later in the quarter, junior defensive back Jordan Nordby pounced on a Dragon fumble, setting up an eventual 10-yard scoring pass from quarterback Michael Pierson to Dakota Lerner-Ross. The Dragons led 14-6 at the break.

The Lions resumed their comeback early in the third quarter, when Pierson led a good scoring march culminating in a 15-yard strike to tight end TJ Monticello to make it a 14-12 ballgame.

Monticello gave the Lions the lead early in the fourth quarter, hauling in a pass from Pierson and takng it 78 yards to the house for a 20-14 edge. The lead would prove short-lived, as Muslim busted his long run on the next possession to end the Lions upset bid.

Tigers ambushed byhungry Gauchos

Beware a team that is coming off a loss. Thats the story in Fridays shellacking at the hands of host Casa Grande, as the Tigers were victimized by a Gaucho team that had been pounded by Petaluma a week earlier.

Unable to run the ball, the Tigers were forced to go to the air against a very strong Casa defense- not exactly a formula for success.

When youre averaging about a half yard per carry, on the ground, youre not going to beat a team like Casa Grande, said Analy coach Dan Bourdon. We havent played well offensively in a while and overall, we just didnt show up to play.

Analys lone touchdown came in the second quarter, when sophomore quarterback Jake Zanutto hooked up with star receiver Chris Bostock on a 71-yard scoring strike to cut the deficit to 10-7. The Gauchos finished the game scoring 27 unanswered points en route to a 37-7 win.

Analy offensive leaders

Passing- Zanutto (8-19, 136 yards, TD, 2 INTs), Julian Titus-Patino (1-5, 55).

Rushing- Cooper Maloney (5-14), Titus-Patino (7-12), Nick Calkins (2-7).

Receiving- Bostock (3-134, TD), Titus-Patino (1-20), Isaak Olsen (2-21), Ryan Beretta (3-16).

Analy defensive leaders

Matt Michelsen (4 tackles, 15 assists), Brandon Riebli (4 tackles, 7 assists), Mark Adams (4 tackles, 6 assists), Olsen (2 tackles, 5 assists), Robert Leon (7 assists), Maloney (2 tackles, 3 assists), Sal Torres (tackle, 7 assists), Kia Fuiava (7 assists), Cory Corcran (4 assists), Eli Alcantar (tackle, 3 assists), Donovan Taylor (tackle, 3 assists), Jimmy Pitkin (tackle, 2 assists), Calkins (tackle, 2 assists), Bo Swift (tackle, assist), Tanner Fox (tackle, assist), Jonathon Aunger (tackle, assist), and a tackle apiece from Titus-Patino, Sean Benfield, Davis Ramirez, and Steven Richardson.

El Mo offensive leaders

Passing- Pierson (22-40, 286 yards, 3 TDs).

Rushing- Tommy Krausmann (18-48).

Receiving- Joe Douglass (10-113), Monticello (6-110, 2 TDs), Lambert (3-36), Lerner-Ross (2-20, TD), Nordby (1-7).

El Mo defensive leaders

Monticello (5 tackles, 5 assists), Douglass (4 tackles, 7 assists), Max Gram (2 tackles, 7 assists), Aaron Vierra (4 tackles, 5 assists), Lerner-Ross (3 tackles, 2 assists), Krausmann (2 tackles, 2 assists), Hayden Gutsch (tackle, 2 assists), Dylan Licciardo (tackle, assist), Nordby (tackle, FR), Lambert (INT), Gary Hill (2 assists), Jeff Rollings (tackle), and Ben Rhoades (assist).

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Dragons hounded into SCL home loss by Healdsburg

By Steven Serafini INDEX-TRIBUNE SPORTS EDITOR



It's challenging enough to have to face a high-quality team, let alone having to to do it without your starting quarterback.

After Sonoma Valley High School's varsity football team found out senior starting quarterback Nate Swanson had separated his shoulder during its Sonoma County League season-opening road loss to Windsor, the Dragons had to press senior Steven Murden into signal-calling duties, with only a week to prepare for the game. Unfortunately, facing one of the Redwood Empire's top teams in talented and tough Healdsburg, the Dragons couldn't cash in early on a possible scoring drive that was stopped on the 12-yard line, then had some breakdowns on both sides of the ball that put them in a 17-0 halftime hole.

Following a defensive stop on the Greyhounds' first possession of the second half, Sonoma started marching down the field, but lost the ball on an interception, then, shortly after, fumbled the ball away. Trailing 24-0 after three quarters, the Dragons finally scored, but Healdsburg left town with a decisive 31-8 win. Sonoma's one bright spot in the lopsided loss was its running game fueled by another strong effort by sophomore running back Yahya Muslim, who carried the ball 20 times and gained 161 yards.

The Dragons' lone score came on a three-yard touchdown run by senior Mario Gomez, who also had a big defensive game at outside linebacker, which included three quarterback sacks.

Though the always-hard-playing Murden did his best to produce on offense, while holding down his main position as a defensive back, the fact is it's too short of time to expect to be efficient on offense against an aggressively sound defense that the Greyhounds bring to each game. With the loss, Sonoma's overall record dropped to 2-4, 0-2 SCL, and the Dragons hit the SCL road this Friday night, Oct. 16, to take on El Molino in a 7:30 p.m. game in Forestville.

Both Sonoma's junior varsity and freshman football teams lost their games last week to Healdsburg and Windsor, respectively, with the results not available at presstime.

Dragons of the Week

The Dragons of the Week in Sonoma's 31-8 SCL loss to Healdsburg Friday night at Arnold Field, are Mario Gomez, Charlie Watson, Nathaneal Hargitt and Yahya Muslim.

Gomez, a 5-foot, 10-inch, 190-pound senior linebacker and running back, played an outstanding game on defense with three quarterback sacks, a key tackle for a loss, and offensively, he scored a touchdown on a three-yard run.

Watson, a 6-0, 180-pound senior defensive end and tight end, had four unassisted tackles, a quarterback sack, and he caught a 12-yard pass for a first down.

Hargitt, a 6-4, 185-pound senior punter and wide receiver, had his second straight solid game of punts and provided good blocking on offense.

Muslim, a 5-7, 150-pound sophomore running back, turned in another standout, and battling-for-every-yard, performance and gained 161 yards on 20 carries.

The Dragons of the Week are sponsored by Eraldi's Men's Wear and Shoes, and Broadway Market.

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Casa bombs Napa into submission


By JOHN JACKSON
ARGUS-COURIER SPORTS EDITOR
Published: Friday, October 2, 2009

Casa Grande’s explosive air force bombed Napa’s powerful infantry into submission Friday night.

Playing on their home field, Casa Grande’s Gauchos yielded ground grudgingly, but frequently to Napa’s muscular running game, but retaliated with a pinpoint passing attack for a 38-32 victory over the Division I powerhouse from the Sac-Joaquin Section.

The win was the fourth straight without a loss to start Trent Herzog’s tenure as Casa Grande head coach.

Official statistics were not immediately available after the game, but Casa Grande quarterback Nick Sherry did complete 10 of 13 passes for close to, or slightly more than, 300 yards, which may be a school record.

The Casa coaching staff will verify the junior quarterback’s numbers Saturday, but what needs no review is the way Sherry sliced apart the Napa defense, throwing for four touchdowns.

But, as Herzog was quick to point out, the passing game was made possible in a large part because of Napa’s intense defensive attention to Gaucho running back Kahlil Keys. Still, the senior rushed for more than 100 yards and caught three passes for 82 yards.

“Sherry and Keys are special,” noted Herzog. “All the kids played a great game, but those two are special.”

Both the coach and quarterback were quick to credit the Casa Grande front line for much of the Gaucho offensive success.

“I had so much time to throw...the offensive line was great,” noted Sherry.

“They are getting better every week,” the coach said.

The line is anchored by center Nick Fausone with Jake Schloetter, Thomas Kupelian, Brandon Patocchi, Nick Joyner and occasionally defensive standout Kevin Brown providing the strong forward wall that kept Sherry well protected almost the entire ball game.

It is interesting to contemplate how many points Casa Grande might have scored if Napa had allowed it to play with the football more.

Led by spectacular quarterback Charles Boyett, the Indians had a knack of getting the ball and keeping it for long, and often productive, drives down the field.

Boyett did it all for the Indians,. He gained over 200 yards rushing, scored five touchdowns, came up with crucial third and fourth-down conversions, passed sparingly, but accurately and even found time to block a Casa PAT.

Napa allowed Casa Grande to run just 11 offensive plays in the entire first half. In the second half, the Indians put together one 18-play drive that consumed more than nine minutes spread over two quarters. A follow-up drive used 13 plays and took more than five minutes.

By contrast, Casa Grande had scoring drives of six, three, six, two and two plays.

Napa hurt itself with three lost fumbles, two crucial personal foul penalties and a final, game clinching pass interception.

By the scoring numbers, here’s what happened.

Following the opening kickoff, Napa drove 65 yards in nine plays, with Boyett scoring from the 2-yard line. An attempted run for a two-point PAT was stymied by a bad snap. Napa 6, Casa Grande 0.

A short pass from Sherry to Keys resulted in a 61 yard gain when the halfback ran over, around and through Indians from the Casa Grande 29 to the Napa 10. When the drive stalled, sophomore Lucas Weston boomed a 22-yard field goal. Napa 6, Casa Grande 3.

After Spencer D’amato recovered a Napa fumble, the Gauchos went 56 yards in just three plays, with Keys busting loose for 21 yards and Sherry passing to a wide open Tyler White for a 29-yard touchdown. Weston kicked true on the conversion. Casa Grande 10, Napa 6 at the end of the first quarter.

Napa drove 41 yards in nine plays for a 1-yard Boyett touchdown run. Big play was a 20-yard pass completion from Boyett to Zach Scheinholtz. The conversion kick try sailed wide left. Napa 12, Casa Grande 10.

Napa drove 60 yards in 12 plays, with Boyett breaking the last 21 for the touchdown. Boyett’s pinpoint pass for the PAT went right through the hands of would-be receiver Logan Hess. Napa 18, Casa Grande 10 at the half.

It took Casa Grande just five plays to tie the game at the outset of the second half. A perfectly executed draw play allowed Keys to race 34 yards for the touchdown. A two-point PAT pass from Sherry to Makana Garrigan tied the game. Casa Grande 18, Napa 18.

A recovery by Brayan Araiza of another Napa fumble set the Gauchos in business at the Napa 32 yard line. A personal foul flag on Napa moved the Gauchos to the 17, and Sherry and Keys hooked up again, with the halfback billard-ball bouncing off three defenders to score. Weston booted the PAT. Casa Grande 25, Napa 18.

Conner Waggoner recovered another Napa fumble at the Casa Grande 47-yard line, and it took just two Sherry completions, one to Keys for 38 yards and one to Garrigan for a 21-yard touchdown, to score. Weston again kicked good. Casa Grande 32, Napa 18 at the end of the third quarter.

Napa started a monster drive from its own 23-yard-line five minutes from the end of the third quarter. Eighteen plays, two four-down conversions and eight playing minutes later, Boyett scored from the 5-yard line. Jonathan Duma slipped an extra-point kick just inside the left upright. Casa Grande 32, Napa 25.

It took Casa Grande less than a minute to answer. On the second play following the kickoff, Sherry made a perfect pass to Javonnie Oden streaking down the middle of the field on a play that carried 69 yards for the quarterback’s fourth touchdown pass of the evening. Boyett blocked the PAT attempt. Casa Grande 38, Napa 25.

Napa chewed up most of the remainder of the half, using five of the seven minutes let on a 58-yard, 13-play drive that again culminated with Boyett in the end zone, scoring this time from the 4-yard line. Duma again converted. Casa Grande 38, Napa 32.

Napa still had time for one final desperation try that ended with Anthony Poole hugging a Boyett pass for a game-concluding interception. All that remained was three kneel downs by Sherry.

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Sullivan rushes for 244 yards in fifth Trojan win


By GEORGE HAIRE
FOR THE ARGUS-COURIER
Published: Friday, October 2, 2009

Running back Sean Sullivan exploded for 244 yards, and scored three touchdowns as surging Petaluma mauled El Molino, 48-7, in Forrestville Friday night.

The victory was the fifth in succession for the undefeated Trojans.

Sullivan scored on first half runs of 41 and 22 yards, and the visiting Petalumans made an early statement in the Sonoma County League opener by driving for touchdowns in each of their first four possessions.

Fullback Ricky Sims and signal caller Mike Russell also ran for scores inside the red zone, as the Trojan front opened big holes en route to a 28-0 advantage at intermission. The only misfire for the fired up Petaluma offense was a blocked field goal attempt in the final minutes of the half.

Sullivan was a step too fast for the Lion defenders once he got into the secondary on well-timed pitches by Russell.

He came back to quickly score again on a 28-yard gallop early in the third quarter, before he was lifted from the game by Petaluma coach Steve Ellison.

“I’m a little surprised that El Molino didn't gear their defense a little more for Sullivan,” Ellison said afterward. “Maybe it is because he didn't have big numbers in our two previous games. Every team we have played so far has looked for Sean.”

While their offense was taking care of business, the Trojan defense won the push up front, forcing El Molino junior quarterback Mike Pierson to hurry his throws. The onrushing Petaluma line pressured Pierson into three interceptions as Chris Kane, Dylan Parks and Joe Soares all came away with thefts.

Defensive linemen Shawn Swanson and Jeremy Mahrt, both seniors, were among the Trojans to make things miserable for Pierson, who threw very well when he had rare opportunities.

Pierson finally hooked up with Joe Douglas on a nifty 55-yard pass play for a touchdown in the third period when reserves were getting some well-earned playing time in the Petaluma secondary.

The Trojans tacked on a couple of scores in the final period under the direction of quarterback Spencer Neve. Neve made a terrific option pitch to running back Drew Pawlan resulting in a 5-yard touchdown run.

With time running out, Neve directed an 85-yard scoring drive in seven plays, punctuated when Casey Rodd rambled 62 yards for a touchdown with only minutes remaining.

El Molino falls to 2-3 for the season with the loss.



AT EL MOLINO
Petaluma 14 14 6 14 — 48
El Molino 0 0 7 0 — 7
P — Sean Sullivan 41 run (Braeden Ross kick)
P — Ricky Sims 1 run (Ross kick)
P — Sullivan 32 run (Ross kick)
P — Mike Russell 4 run (Ross kick)
P — Sullivan 28 run (kick failed)
E — Joe Douglass 55 pass from Mike Pierson (kick good)
P — Drew Pawlan 3 run (Ross kick)
P — Casey Rodd 62 run (Ross kick)
P: Rushing, Sullivan 14-244, Rodd 2-73, James Molinari 7-38, Stephen McElroy 7-34. Passing, Spencer Neve 2-6-0-17, Russell 1-2-0-23. Receiving, Tyler Tuck 1-23.
Records: P 5-0; EM 2-3
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Dragons dumped by Dublin; SCL play begins tomorrow against Windsor

Ray Sullivan Jr. | Sonoma Valley Sun

The Sonoma Dragons concluded pre-season play with a disappointing 22-20 loss to the visiting Dublin Gaels Saturday night at Arnold Field.
The loss drops the Dragons record to 2-2, with Sonoma County League play set to begin tomorrow night in Santa Rosa against Windsor (3-1).

Dublin (1-3) entered the game winless on the season and victorious in only seven of their previous 33 games. However, the Gaels executed their Wing-T offense with enough aplomb to dominate the time of possession and were able to wear down the Dragon defensive front.

Sophomore tailback Yahya Muslim scored twice, including a 46-yard scamper on the fourth play of the game to put Sonoma up 7-0. Muslim would score again in the second quarter en route to his third 100-yard rushing game of the season.

Dublin, mixing counter plays with power running, scored two rushing touchdowns in the first half, the second coming moments before halftime for a 15-13 lead. The Gaels would add another score on a quarterback keeper in the fourth quarter to go up 22-13.

Moments after senior quarterback Nate Swanson and senior receiver Tyler Rose connected on a key third-and-10 conversion, Swanson found Rose in the left corner of the East end zone to cut the Gael lead to 22-20.
An onside kick attempts was recovered by Dublin, but the Gales fumbled the ball on third down giving the dragons a final shot at the comeback.

One play after being sacked, Swanson’s pass was intercepted near midfield and returned deep into Dragon territory to seal the win for Dublin.

Swanson finished with 120 yards passing on the night, at one point connecting on seven passes in a row and Rose hauled in nine passes for 92 yards.

Defensively the Dragons were led by the junior duo of Kevin Deely and Sean Daly who finished with 15 and 14 tackles respectively. Returning All-League safety Steven Murden topped all tacklers with 16 and Stephen Brooks continued his solid play at defensive end with 13 tackles.

With league action slated to begin for the Dragons tomorrow night, defensive coordinator Mike Mulas was cautious about his team’s chances.
“Every other team in the SCL won this weekend,” said Mulas. “This season our league is about as competitive as it’s ever been. Now is when we begin the tough part of our schedule.”

With the Dragons slated to take on Windsor in the SCL opener tomorrow night here is The Sun’s 2009 SCL football preview:

Windsor (Oct. 3): The Jaguars lost leading rusher Cameron Erion for the season with a broken leg. Quarterback D.J. King has taken a more active role in the Windsor attack and last week passed for 153 and ran for 120 in the Jaguars 42-28 pasting of Maria Carrillo. Windsor is 3-1 in the pre-season, but one of the victories was an unimpressive 14-6 win over lowly Santa Rosa.

Healdsburg (Oct. 9): The Greyhounds (3-1) have yet to be tested after a pre-season schedule that featured wins over McKinleyville, Piner and Acaclanes. The lone loss came at the hands of Alhambra. Coach Tom Kirkpatrick always plays the Dragons tough and look for RB / LB Dillon Cattalani to be a difference maker.

El Molino (Oct. 16): Originally thought to be one of the easiest games on the Dragon schedule, the Lions are off to a surprising 2-2 start. El Molino’s distinction of “contender or pretender” will likely be decided tonight as they take on a talented and fast Petaluma team. Tom Krausmann exploded for three rushing touchdowns in last week’s victory over winless Piner.

Casa Grande (Oct. 23): The Dragons will again look for the “Homecoming magic” that was employed to upset the Gauchos in 2007 at Arnold Field. The Gauchos (3-0) are the clear-cut favorite to capture the SCL. Casa Grande has been the dominant team in the SCL over the past decade and despite losing a strong group of seniors to graduation the Gauchos have reloaded. Quarterback Nick Sherry is one of the best in the Empire and the running back duo of Khalil Keys and Javonnie Oden could be likened to “Thunder and Lightning.” Entering this week’s play the Gauchos are the number one ranked team in the Empire.

Petaluma (Oct. 30): The Trojans used a blocked PAT to defeat Rancho Cotate last week 14-12 to improve to 4-0. Speedy tailback Sean Sullivan has become a YouTube sensation, but has bottled up the past two weeks by opposing defenses. The Trojans under long-time coach Steve Ellison like to keep it on the ground, passing only eight times a game so far in 2009. Bruising back Ricky Sims and quarterback Mike Russell complement Sullivan well.

Analy (Nov. 6): The Tigers, like 2008, are undefeated after the pre-season. However, last season reality set in as the Tigers struggled against SCL competition. Sophomore quarterback Nick Zanutto has a trio a big-play receivers that allows the Tigers to score from anywhere on the field. Seniors Ross Bostock and Ryan Beretta and junior Julian Titus-Patino combined for 263 receiving yards in last week’s 35-16 win over Santa Rosa.




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Dragons speed past Vallejo 28-14



Ray Sullivan Jr. | Sonoma Valley Sun

What a difference a week makes.
Just seven days after failing to hold a 10-point fourth-quarter lead, the Sonoma Dragons rebounded with a resounding 28-14 victory over the Vallejo Apaches Friday night (Sept. 18)at Corbus Field.

The Vallejo program, while steep in tradition, provided little resistance to Sonoma’s offense, which racked up four touchdowns in the first half. The win improves the Dragons record to 2-1, and the pre-season concludes this Saturday night against Dublin (0-3) at Arnold Field.

The visiting Gaels come into the Sept. 26 contest with a program in need of a rebirth, having won only seven games in their last 33 tries.

The Dublin defense has allowed an average of 48 points per game so far this season.
The contest against Vallejo was over almost as quickly as it got started.

Following a touch-back, senior quarterback Nate Swanson hit receiver Tyler Rose for a 29-yard gain to the Sonoma 49-yard line. After a procedure call, sophomore tailback Yahya Muslim raced 56 yards through the Apache defense for a stunning 6-0 lead.

Senior Jordan Winslow added the extra point for a quick 7-0 Sonoma advantage.

Confusion prevailed on the ensuing kickoff by senior Thomas Watson. The ball landed inside the Vallejo 30-yard line, but the Apache players retreated from the live ball allowing Sonoma to recover the kick on the 21-yard line.

One play later Swanson’s second completion of the game was good for a touchdown, a 21-yard swing pass to senior Kris Patrick that put Sonoma ahead 14-0 just minutes into the game.

The Dragons would continue their first-half scoring onslaught, adding a one-yard score on the ground by senior Mario Gomez and a repeat performance through the air by the duo of Swanson and Patrick for 28 first-half points.

The Dragons allowed a lone Vallejo touchdown until the closing moments when the Apaches returned a punt 93 yards for a score. However, Sonoma failed to generate any points in the second half, a recurring concern after the first three games for the coaching staff.

“We didn’t do in the second half what we need to do,” said defensive coordinator Mike Mulas. “In the future we will need to have a better effort after halftime.”

Mulas was perplexed by the Vallejo attack, especially its inflexibility, despite the Apaches lack of success throughout the game; employing primarily a concept that rarely had players lined up outside of the hash-marks.

“The important thing is that we improved from last week, but I’m surprised that they lined up and tried to play smash-mouth so much,” said Mulas.

Muslim, who had another near-score negated by a penalty, appeared to be the fastest player on the field and was complimentary of the Corbus Field conditions.

“I love the turf,” said Muslim. “It makes me feel faster.”

Defensively Gomez and Dominic De Martini led the way with 10 tackles, and constantly pressured the Apache quarterback. Senior Stephen Brooks tallied eight stops as did senior cornerback Mike Benson.

Junior linebacker Sean Daly stopped the Apaches twice for losses behind the line of scrimmage.






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Healdsburg seeks revenge in SCL opener

By
BENJAMIN HERRINGTON
NCSNBL.com

Only 14 points separate a complete repeat of last seasons Sonoma County League opener between these two teams. In 2008, Analy and Healdsburg entered this contest at Karlson Field undefeated with a combine eight wins. The Greyhounds were the favorite heading into the contest but Analys offense lead by second year starting QB David Glass
took control and never looked back in route to a 17-0 Tigers victory.

This season, things look very much the same with Analy at 4-0 and Healdsburg at 3-1. Only difference between 08 and 09 is a 14 point loss the Greyhounds suffered against Alhambra in week #1.

Healdsburg is looking to change things from last season. So far, the Greyhounds offense hasnt be stellar, but has been steady as they average 26 points per game. This past week in their second away game of the year, Healdsburg traveled to Acalanes to compete against the Dons. Acalanes entered the game with a 1-2 record which included a two point loss to Aptos, and a 35-20 victory over Justin-Siena. With a 14-0 halftime lead, coach Tom Kirkpatrick had the game well in hand and the Greyhounds cruised to a 28-14 win.

Analys offense has been a bit more high powered than Healdsburg as they average nearly forty points per game. Last week in a Saturday night contest, the Tigers matched up against the Santa Rosa Panthers with a halftime score of 14-7. Santa Rosas Jaden Rosselli managed to find himself in the right spot on the Tigers opening third quarter drive as
he intercepted one of Jake Zanuttos passes and ran it back for a Panthers touchdown to tie the score at 14-14.

After throwing four interceptions at that point, Zanutto took the game over by passing for three more touchdowns in the third quarter alone. He finished the night with 4 touchdown passes, which brings his total to an Empire leading 11 over the course of 4 games.

Some impressive offense seems to be the key in this contest which will be held at Healdsburg Recreation Park this Friday night. The winner will be one step closer to a Sonoma County League title and a possible NCS Div. III playoff berth.
For Analy, a win here would make the second straight season the Tigers have started the season undefeated at 5-0.


Game Series

Healdsburg leads Series 5-4
2009

2008
Analy won 17-0

2007
Healdsburg won 42-13

2007
Healdsburg won 33-21

2006
Healdsburg won 40-12

2005
Analy won 43-28

2004
Healdsburg won 34-7

2003
Analy won 42-19

2002
Healdsburg won 44-42

2001
Analy won 35-15


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Lions and Tigers post wins in pre-season pigskin finales

West County football report

by Greg Clementi
Sports Editor
Published: Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Analy and El Molino varsity football squads put an emphatic stamp on a strong pre-season on Saturday, notching a pair of impressive non-league road victories.

The Lions (2-2) logged a sun-drenched 34-16 win over the Piner Prospectors, while the unbeaten Tigers (4-0) powered past the Santa Panthers, 35-16.

Both teams will open the Sonoma County league campaign this Friday, Oct. 2, as the Lions host Petaluma, while the Tigers travel to face Healdsburg at Recreation Park. JV and varsity kickoff times are set for 5 and 7:30 p.m.

Lions show heart, stamina in win over Piner

The Lions turned in their best overall effort of the season at Piner, overcoming 103-degree heat and key injuries to post a lop-sided win.

El Mo benefited from some great performances from several key players, including quarterback Michael Pierson, running back Tommy Krausmann, and H-Back Joe Douglass on offense, and cornerback Jordan Nordby, linebackers TJ Monticello and Dakota Lerner-Ross, and linemen Jared Garner and Matt Howard on defense.

The courageous effort by an undermanned squad was not lost on head coach Mike Roan.

“It was a tough day to play football, but we knew it was just as hot for the other team,” said Roan. “It was an important momentum game heading into the league season, and it gave us some positive energy coming out of there with a win.”

The Prospectors drew first blood on their opening possession, connecting on a 50-yard touchdown pass for an early, 7-0 lead. The Lions came right back midway through the period when Pierson hooked up with Douglass on a 67-yard scoring strike. Josh Hoener added the PAT boot to knot the game at 7-7.

El Mo’s big-play defender Jordan Nordby would serve notice on Piner’s next series, picking off a pass and returning it 50 yards to the Prospector 15. Lady Luck embraced the Lions on the ensuing series, when tight end TJ Monticello caught a pass and fumbled into the Piner end zone, where the ball was recovered by Dakota Lerner-Ross for an El Mo touchdown.

With the Lions leading 13-7, Piner inexplicably tried to convert a fourth and short from its own 29 yard line, but was stuffed by the El Mo defense. The Lions cashed in a few plays later when Lerner-Ross hauled in a pass at the Piner two. The play set up a two-yard scoring plunge from Krausmann. Pierson found Douglass on a pass for the two-point conversion and the Lions led, 21-7.

Moments later, Nordby intercepted his second pass of the half and returned it to the Piner two-yard line. Krausmann sealed the deal with another two-yard dive to make it a 27-7 ballgame. The Prospectors capped the first half scoring with a 19-yard field goal to make it 27-10 at the break.

The scorching heat was taking its toll in the second half, with players on both sides feeling the effects. After a scoreless third quarter, Nordby’s third pick of the afternoon helped set up the Lion’s final score, a four-yard scoring burst from Krausmann en route to a 34-16 win.

Pierson turned in his best game of the season, completing 12 of 22 passes for 234 yards and a touchdown. Krausmann, all of 135 pounds, defied the laws of physics in carrying the ball 30 times for 121 yards and three scores.

Leading El Mo tacklers were Monticello (9), Douglass (7), Garner (6), Nordby (5 tackles, 3 INTs), and Howard (4).
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Greyhounds roll over Acalanes, 28-14 in pre-season grid finale


Healdsburg entertains Analy this Friday in SCL opener

By GREG CLEMENTI
Sports Editor
Published: Wednesday, September 30, 2009

The varsity football Greyhounds wrapped up a successful pre-season campaign on Friday, turning back the host Acalanes Dons in Lafayette, 28-14.

Healdsburg (3-1) looks primed and ready to open the Sonoma County League schedule this Friday, Oct. 2 against undefeated Analy. Kickoff times at Recreation Park beginning with the JV are 5 and 7:30 p.m.

Healdsburgs pre-season success can be traced to several factors, not the least of which has been an opportunistic defense that has shown a penchant for the take-away, allowing opponents just 12 points per game. The offensive line has gelled perhaps quicker than expected and has given quarterback Killian Collins time to find receivers Tanner Walker, Ian Gallagher, and tight end George Brush. Senior running back Dillon Cattalini has been a tough and reliable ball carrier.

The Tigers, who defeated the Hounds 17-0 in a driving rainstorm last year, are fresh off a perfect, 4-0 pre-season, capped with a 35-14 win over Santa Rosa last week. Analy features a solid defense and a balanced offensive attack behind emerging sophomore quarterback Jake Zanutto, junior running backs Julian Titus-Patino and Cooper Maloney, and senior receiver Chris Bostock.

The Analy game should be fun, said Healdsburg head coach Tom Kirkpatrick. Their young quarterback has looked good and they have a lot of weapons.

The Hounds left nothing to chance in Fridays clash at Acalanes, shocking the Dons with 14 unanswered points in the first half. Healdsburg got the party started in the second quarter when Collins directed a short scoring march culminating in a four-yard scoring burst from Cattalini. Back-up kicker Thomas Kozel nailed the PAT boot for a 7-0 lead.

Safety Ian Gallagher came up with yet another huge play for the Hounds late in the period, when he picked off a Dons pass and took it 34-yards to the house for a 14-0 halftime advantage.

Collins opened the third quarter with the best march of the night, driving his team the length of the field before diving over from a yard out for a decisive, 21-0 bulge.

Healdsburg capped the offensive fireworks in the final period when a short field led to a two-yard touchdown scamper from junior back Carson Seanor. Acalanes made it respectable with a pair of late touchdowns, but the Hounds would coast to an eventual, 28-14 victory.

Collins turned in a solid night under center, completing 12 of 19 passes for 141 yards and a rushing touchdown. Other strong offensive contributors included Cattalini (19-42 yards rushing, TD), Walker (4-38 yards receiving), Brush (3-57 yards receiving), and Gallagher (2-23 yards receiving). Kozel, a late replacement for injured kicker Martin Chesley, was a perfect 4-4 on PAT kicks, while punter Frankie Renteria averaged a solid 34 yards per boot.

Leading defenders were Walker (7 solo tackles), Justin Furia (6 tackles, 2 assists), AJ Ruiz (6 tackles, 2 assists, sack), Cattalini (5 tackles, 3 assists, FR), Gallagher (3 assists, 2 INTs), Gary Randolph (5 tackles, 2 assists), Nick Sweeney (4 tackles, 2 assists), Brush (3 tackles, 2 assists), Quaid Mancini (3 tackles), Kozel (3 tackles), Trey Davis (3 tackles), Travis Arreguin (tackle, 4 assists), Omar Flores (2 tackles, assist), Dominic Tynan (2 tackles), David Capron (tackle, assist), Cele Fernandez (tackle, assist), and Jose Fonseca (tackle).
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Hounds gridders play lights out in 32-0 win over Piner

Healdsburg runs record to 2-1; visits Acalanes this Friday

By GREG CLEMENTI
Sports Editor
Published: Thursday, September 24, 2009

One of the keys to football success is the ability to find an opponent’s weakness and exploit it.

The Greyhounds did just that in their Sept. 18 pre-season clash with Piner, out-playing the visiting Prospectors in a 32-0 shutout victory at Recreation Park.

This Friday, the Greyhounds will put their 2-1 record on the line in the pre-season finale at Acalanes High School in Lafayette. Game times starting with the JV are 5 and 7:30 p.m.

All that was missing in Friday’s win over Piner was Don Meredith’s southern rendition of “Turn Out the Lights, the Party’s Over.” The light standards over Art McCaffrey Field suddenly went dark eight minutes into the third quarter, leading to 30-minute delay of the game.

When the lights were restored, Piner lineman Dustin Bogges went down with what appeared to be a neck injury, resulting in him being taken away by ambulance. With the teams standing around for nearly 75 minutes, both coaches decided to call for a stoppage of the game. Bogges would later be released with no serious injuries.

In the end, it was apparent that 16 more minutes of football would have made little difference in the eventual outcome, as the Hounds came away with their most impressive win of the young season.

“We had Piner scouted pretty well, so our guys were aware of what was coming,” said Hounds coach Tom Kirkpatrick. “Our defense played very aggressively and overall we were a little quicker and in better shape.”

The Healdsburg special teams got the party started early, as senior return man Tanner Walker fielded a Piner punt and raced 46 yards to the house for a 6-0 lead. Quarterback Killian Collins had the Hounds on the move later in the opening quarter, a march that culminated in an 11-yard touchdown bolt by Carson Seanor for a 12-0 advantage at the end of one.

The Hounds gained separation in the second period when Collins hooked up with big-play receiver Ian Gallagher on a 10-yard scoring strike. A Piner turnover would lead to another touchdown pass from Collins to Gallagher, giving Healdsburg a 25-0 halftime lead. The Greyhounds capped the offensive fireworks early in the third quarter when Collins found tight end George Brush on an 18-yard touchdown dagger for an eventual 32-0 Hounds win.

“With everything that happened, it was one of the strangest games I’ve ever been around,” noted Kirkpatrick. “But nobody got hurt and Piner didn’t have any serious injuries so it turned out okay.”

The Hounds’ defensive unit played a huge role in the lopsided victory, winning the take-away battle, 3-0. The Hounds got key interceptions from Walker and Thomas Kozel, in addition to a fumble recovery from Travis Arreguin to gain valuable field position.

Collins turned in a solid outing in directing the Healdsburg offense, completing six of 11 pass attempts for 94 yards and three touchdowns. Max Opperman also saw limited action, connecting on one of two passes for 41 yards. Top ground-gainers included: Seanor (9-55 yards, TD), and Dillon Cattalini (9-52 yards). Leading the receiving corps were: Gallagher (3-44 yards, 2 TDs), Kozel (1-41 yards), Cattalini (1-22 yards), and Brush (2-28 yards, TD).

Top defenders included: Justin Furia (5 tackles, 2 assists, sack), Gary Randolph (4 tackles, assist), Arreguin (4 tackles, assist, FR), Trey Davis (3 tackles, sack), Cele Fernandez (2 tackles, assist), Walker (2 tackle, INT), Kozel (2 tackles, INT), AJ Ruiz (tackle, 2 assists, sack), Dayton Hiles (2 tackles, assist), Quaid Mancini (2 tackles), Trey Saulter (2 tackles), Opperman (tackle, assist), Nick Sweeney (tackle, assist), and Gallagher (tackle, assist).
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Analy, El Mo footballers notch pre-season wins


by Greg Clementi
Sports Editor
Published: Wednesday, September 23, 2009

The Lions and Tigers emerged from week three of the fall football campaign with impressive victories, as El Mo pounded Elsie Allen, 49-19, while Analy powered past San Marin, 37-22.

This Saturday, Sept. 26, the Lions (1-2) travel to Piner, with JV and varsity games set for 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. The Tigers (3-0) will take on Santa Rosa at Ernie Nevers Field on Saturday night, with kickoff times scheduled for 5 and 7:30 p.m.

Lions notch win

Forestville fans were breathing a heavy sigh of relief on Friday at Elsie Allen, as the Lions recorded their first “W” of the season.

“It was good to get a win and restore some much-needed confidence,” said El Mo coach Mike Roan. “We had good field position for most of the first half and had some players step up and have great games.”

The outcome of this one was decided early, as junior quarterback Michael Pierson directed a pair of first-quarter scoring drives that had the Lions up 14-0 by the end of one.

Junior running back Tommy Krausmann took over the rushing duties midway through the first quarter, after starting senior back Quante Brinson was lost due to a severely injured ankle.

The Lions gained separation in the second quarter, taking advantage of great field position to mount a pair of scoring drives culminating in a 37-yard pass to big-play junior Joe Douglass, followed by a two-yard touchdown run by junior Garrit Afman for a 28-0 halftime lead.

Junior return man Jordan Nordby left nothing to chance, returning the third-quarter kickoff 85 yards to the house for a 35-0 bulge. The Lions found pay-dirt again when Krausmann dove over from two yards out for another score. The Lobos clawed back with a touchdown at the end of the third, and another pair of scores in the fourth quarter to close the gap to 42-19. Afman would cap the Lion’s fireworks in the final quarter with a 30-yard interception return for the game’s final touchdown and a 49-19 El Mo victory.

Krausmann turned in a great debut in leading the El Mo ground attack with over 100 yards rushing. Pierson turned in his best effort of the season with two rushing touchdowns and one through the air. Lion’s kicker Josh Hainer converted all seven PAT attempts.

Tigers still unbeaten

Analy continues to be the surprise team of the North Bay, logging another win over a worthy opponent. Visiting San Marin served as the Tiger’s latest victim, falling prey to another fast start by the Analy offensive unit.

“We’ve got some young guys that are playing pretty well right now,” said Analy head coach Dan Bourdon. “I feel like we’ve got good depth and we’re playing great defense, but we need these wins because we know league will be very tough.”

The Tigers drew first blood against San Marin early in the opening quarter when quarterback Jake Zanutto capped a solid march with a 20-yard scoring pass to Julian Titus-Patino. Sal Torres followed with the first of his eventual four PAT boots for a 7-0 lead. Analy went up by two scores by the end of one when junior back Cooper Maloney dove over from a yard out for a 14-0 bulge.

A pair of second-quarter drives resulted in a 37-yard Torres field goal, followed by a 12-yard scoring strike from Zanutto to receiver Ryan Beretta and the Tigers led, 24-7 at the break.

After a scoreless third period, the Mustangs fought back with a pair of touchdowns, but Maloney would seal the deal with a one-yard scoring burst, followed by a game-clinching, 51-yard interception return en route to an eventual, 37-22 win.

Analy offensive leaders

Passing: Zanutto (13-24, 206 yards, 2 TDs),

Receiving: Chris Bostock (5-121 yards), Beretta (3-35 yards, TD), Titus-Patino (5-38 yards, TD), Issak Olsen (2-12 yards).

Rushing: Maloney (11-62 yards, 2 TDs), Nick Calkins (8-45 yards).

Defensive leaders

Olsen (12 tackles, 5 assists), Dallas Hamilton (9 tackles, 6 assists), Mark Adams (3 tackles, 5 assists), Titus-Patino (3 tackles 4 assists), Brandon Riebli (4 tackles, assist), Calkins (4 tackles, assist), and interceptions from Maloney and Eli Alcantar.

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Tiger gridders roll Piner, Lions fall to Fortuna

by Greg Clementi
Sports Editor
Published: Thursday, September 17, 2009


Week two of the football pre-season held vastly different results for West County high school teams, as Analy ran past Piner, 39-14, while El Molino stumbled in a 44-7 loss to Fortuna.

Lions’forgettable night

When all is said and done this fall, Friday’s nightmarish loss to visiting Fortuna will no doubt serve as the low-light of the season. Very little went right for the Lions, including three interceptions thrown by quarterback Michael Pierson that were returned for touchdowns.

The dismal performance is one that players and coaches will be quick to put behind them.

The lone highlight of the game for the Lions came in the second quarter when El Mo senior linebacker Dakota Lerner-Ross scooped up a fumble and raced 75 yards for a touchdown.

“Sure we’re disappointed, but not discouraged,” said El Mo head coach Mike Roan. “We just need a win right now to re-gain some confidence.” The El Mo JV squad dropped a barn-burner to Fortuna, 31-26.

The Lions will look to get off the schneid this Friday when they travel to take on Elsie Allen in Santa Rosa. Game times are 5 and 7:30 p.m.

Tigers on a roll

Any Tiger fans anticipating a rebuilding season could be in for a pleasant surprise this year, as Analy continues to roll over pre-season opponents. The Tigers made Piner its latest victim, overcoming an early 14-6 deficit with 33 unanswered points.

The host Prospectors, featuring a huge line, figured to test the Tigers’ ability to control the line of scrimmage, but it was actually Piner that wore down in the second half.

The Tigers fell behind early in the first quarter when Piner mounted a 90-second march ending in a short scoring pass for a 7-0 lead. A failed on-side kick attempt gave Analy the ball at midfield, and the Tigers cashed in moments later on a wild, pass deflection that was hauled in by receiver Issak Olsen who raced 45 yards for a touchdown. The PAT kick failed and Analy trailed, 7-6.

Piner came right back on its next possession, mounting a seven-play, 90 yard drive that ended with an eight-yard scoring run for a 14-6 bulge. It would serve as the high-water mark of the day for the Prospectors.

Analy would use a fumble recovery from linebacker Matt Michelsen to start its next drive, culminating in a spectacular, six-yard leaping touchdown grab by Chris Bostock. The Tigers failed on the two-point conversion try and trailed, 14-12.

It was all Tigers from that point on, as emerging sophomore quarterback Jake Zanutto led his team on a decisive march that led to a 20-yard scoring dash from Cooper Maloney, followed by the PAT kick from Sal Torres for a 19-14 lead.

The Analy defense stepped up, when defensive back Bo Swift picked off the first of his three interceptions to kill a Piner threat. Bostock broke loose on a 53-yard pass play with seven minutes left in the half to set up a seven-yard scoring burst by Julian Titus-Patino for a 25-14 halftime lead.

Analy’s stout defensive unit continued to throttle the Prospectors in a scoreless third quarter. The Tigers would ice the contest in the final period with a one-yard touchdown dive by Zanutto and a 39-yard scoring dash from Andrew Dannenbring en route to a 39-14 win.

The JV squad beat Piner 21-12.

Zanutto turned in another outstanding game in leading the offensive unit, completing, six of 17 pass attempts for 137 yards and two scores.

Top ground-gainers included: Maloney (8-134 yards, TD), Nick Calkins (12-65 yards), Dannenbring (1-39 yards, TD), Zanutto (5-11 yards, TD), and Titus-Patino (2-5 yards. Leading the receiving corps were: Olsen (3-76 yards, TD), and Bostock (3-61 yards, TD).

Top defenders included: Adams (3 tackles, 4 assists, INT), Swift (3 tackles, 5 assists, 3 INTs), Maloney (5 tackles, 6 assists, caused fumble), Kia Fuivia (3 tackles, 3 assists), Eli Alcantar (tackle, 3 assists), Olsen (3 tackles, 4 assists), Calkins (2 tackles, 6 assists), Brandon Riebli (2 tackles, 3 assists, caused fumble), Dallas Hamilton (2 tackles, 4 assists), Michelsen (tackle, 2 assists, FR), Brandon Mantooth (tackle, 2 assists), Sean Benfield (2 tackles), and James Libby (tackle, 2 assists), and a tackle each from Bostock, Torres, Shane Pitkin, Tanner Fox, and Dominic Fomasi.



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Greyhounds fall to Alhambra, 28-14 in home grid opener

Healdsburg evens record to 1-1; plays Piner on Friday
By GREG CLEMENTI
Sports Editor
Published: Friday, September 18, 2009

The varsity football Greyhounds suffered their first setback of the season on Friday, falling to Alhambra, 28-14 in the home opener at Recreation Park.

The law of physics played a big part in the eventual outcome, as the Hounds spotted the visiting Bulldogs an average of more than 30 pounds per man. In addition, most of Healdsburgs starters played on both sides of the ball for all four quarters.

Despite the disparity in size and numbers, Healdsburg turned in a solid, if not courageous effort in giving the visitors all they could handle.

"Some of our guys were taking on much bigger players, so we showed a lot of courage out there," noted Hounds head coach Tom Kirkpatrick, citing a great effort by linebacker Justin Furia. "We just need to use the game to get better."

After a scoreless first quarter, Alhambra drew blood when a 73-yard drive resulted in a 30-yard scoring strike from quarterback RJ Cellini to a leaping Trevor Davis for a 7-0 lead.

The Hounds showed signs of life when quarterback Killian Collins connected on a 15-yard pass play to wide-out Tanner Walker to midfield, but a pair of sacks would end the march.

Midway through the second quarter, a Bulldog interception set up a 25-yard touchdown scamper by running back Richard Calhoun, and Alhambra took a 14-0 lead at the break.

Healdsburg battled back in the third quarter, as Collins began to roll out and buy himself valuable time. A strong push from the offensive line started to open holes for senior running back Dillon Cattalini.

Late in the period, senior safety and big-play man Ian Gallagher picked off a pass deep in Alhambra territory, and then caught a pair of passes to set up a first and goal at the Bulldog four. Cattalini cashed in a couple of plays later, diving over from a yard out to cut the deficit to 14-7 at the end of three.

Alhambra gained separation early in the fourth quarter when a sustained drive led to a nine-yard scoring pass and a 21-7 bulge.

But the Hounds refused to go quietly, as Collins hooked up on a 35-yard pass play to speedy receiver Thomas Kozel. Junior back Carson Seanor broke loose on a run to the three-yard line, and Collins sealed the drive with a short scoring strike to tight end George Brush. Martin Chesley added a PAT boot and Healdsburg trailed, 21-14.

The euphoria was short-lived, as the Bulldogs mounted a decisive late drive that resulted in a game-clinching touchdown, escaping with an eventual, 28-14 victory.

Healdsburg (1-1) will resume pre-season action this Friday when it entertains Piner at Recreation Park. Kickoff times starting with the JV are 5 and 7:30 p.m.

Offensive stat leaders

Passing: Collins (12-20, 158 yards, TD, INT)

Rushing: Cattalini (15-38 yards, TD), Seanor (3-4 yards), Collins (10-9 yards)

Receiving: Gallagher (6-60 yards), Kozel (2-46 yards), Walker (2-27 yards), and Brush (2-18 yards, TD).

Defensive

Cattalini (9 tackles, 4 assists), Justin Furia (8 tackles, 5 assists), Gallagher (8 tackles, 2 assists, INT), Gary Randolph (8 tackles, assist, sack), Travis Arreguin (7 tackles, assist), Sweeney (6 tackles, 3 assists, sack), Brush (tackle, 3 assists, 2 sacks), AJ Ruiz (tackle, 5 assists), Kozel (2 tackles), Cele Fernandez ( tackle, 2 assists), and a tackle apiece from Dominic Tynan, Dom Passalacqua, Trey Davis, and Walker.
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Analy football comes out strong; El Molino shows promise

by Greg Clementi
Sports Editor
Published: Wednesday, September 9, 2009

West County football teams kicked off the pre-season with mixed results last week, as the Tigers ran rough-shod over Terra Linda, 42-20, while the Lions dropped a 10-7 heartbreaker to Berean Christian.

This week, El Molino (0-1) plays host to Fortuna this Friday, Sept. 11 (5/7:30 p.m.), while Analy (1-0) travels to Piner on Saturday, Sept. 12 (10 a.m./1 p.m.).

Young Tigers serve notice

Analy enjoyed a tremendous grid opener at Karlson Field, rolling up nearly 500 yards in total offense against an over-matched Terra Linda squad.

Sophomore quarterback Jake Zanutto led the charge in what amounted to a terrific varsity debut, throwing for 222 yards and five touchdowns. The strong-armed signal-caller piled up virtually all of his statistics in a wide-open first half that ended with the Tigers up 42-7.

“Jake did what we were hoping he’d do,” said head coach Dan Bourdon. “The offensive line gave him all day to throw and he made good decisions. It always helps when your team starts fast and gets a big early lead.”

The Tiger playmakers came up big, as all-purpose junior Julian Titus-Patino chipped in five receptions for 115 yards and a pair of scores, while senior receiver Chris Bostock hauled in four catches for 65 yards and two touchdowns. Junior running back Cooper Maloney led the ground attack with seven carries for a team-high 55 yards, while senior Nick Calkins rushed six times for 34 yards and a touchdown.

Senior Sal Torres did a great job handling the punting (3-93 yards) and kicking chores, averaging over 56 yards per kickoff and three touchbacks.

Although quick to point out that Analy’s success had a lot to do with the level of competition, the Tiger brain-trust was more than pleased with the showing.

“We’ve got a lot of unproven guys so we weren’t sure what to expect in our first game,” noted Bourdon. “Overall, I thought the team played real well. Our defense helped us out quite a bit, especially with the interceptions.”

Pulling down picks for the Tigers were Sal Torres, Bo Swift, and sophomore Mark Adams. Defensive lineman Brandon Riebli wreaked havoc all night, finishing up with a tackle, three assists, and a pair of sacks. Other strong defensive efforts came from: Matt Michelsen (2 tackles, 7 assists, sack), James Libby (3 tackles, 5 assists), Issak Olsen (2 tackles, 2 assists), Torres (tackle, 4 assists, INT) and a pair of tackles from Kui Fuivia, and Sean Benfield.

Scoring Summary (Analy 42, Terra Linda 20)

1st quarter

Analy- 9:45 Bostock from Zanutto 6 yard pass, Torres kick

Analy- 8:54 Beretta from Zanutto 19 yards, Torres kick

Analy- 4:02 Titus-Patino from Zanutto 72 yards, Torres kick

2nd quarter

Analy-11:38 Bostock from Zanutto 9 yard pass, Torres kick

TL- 10:13 Christian Mandi from Dan Higgens 15 yard pass Galvin kick

Analy- 6:34 Calkins 10 yard run, Calkins two-point conversion run

Analy- 1:22 Titus-Patino from Zanutto 15 yard pass, kick failed

4th quarter

TL- 10:08 Carlos Aguerreber 1 yard run, Galvin kick

TL- 4:38 Sasha Steinberg from Higgens 34 yard pass, kick failed

Lions fall to Berean Christian

The start of the fall campaign did not go as scripted from a Lion’s perspective, as BC return man Chris Morgan took the opening kickoff and raced 90 yards for a touchdown.

A few minutes later Berean picked off El Mo quarterback Michael Pierson, with the possession ending in a 28-yard field goal and a 10-0 lead. The visitors would make the early lead stand up, holding off a second-half El Mo rally that fell agonizingly short in the fourth quarter.

“It’s frustrating because we controlled the game from midway through the first quarter on,” said Lion’s coach Mike Roan. “We were able to move the ball well but mistakes here and there killed us. Overall, our defense did a great job.”

El Mo shook off a sluggish, 10-0 first half deficit to seize momentum in the third quarter. The Lions found pay-dirt when a sustained, nine-play drive resulted in a 25-yard touchdown strike from Pierson to junior big-play receiver Joe Douglass. Toree Smith added the PAT boot and El Mo trailed, 10-7.

The game hung in the balance late in the fourth when the Lions drove inside the Berean Christian five-yard line, but the drive stalled and Roan called on the field goal unit. The kick was blocked and the visitors escaped with a 10-7 victory.

Pierson finished off a solid second half 18-34 for 191 yards passing and a touchdown.

Senior running back Quante Brinson turned in a sparkling night with 13 rushes for 113 yards. Top receivers were: Douglass (5-105 yards,TD), sophomore Chet Lambert (4-45 yards), and TJ Monticello (4-29 yards).

Leading defenders included: Ben Rhoades (3 tackles, assist, FR), Douglass (2 tackles, 4 assists), Lambert (2 tackles, 3 assists), Monticello (1 tackle, 4 assists), Jordan Nordby (tackle, assist, INT), Brinson (2 tackles, 2 assists), and three assists from Hayden Gutsch, and Jared Garner.

Scoring summary (Berean Christian 10, El Molino 7)

1st quarter

BC- Morgan 90 yard kickoff return, PAT kick

BC- Morgan 28-yard field goal

3rd quarter

EM – Douglass 25-yard pass from Pierson, Smith kick.
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Greyhounds pound McKinleyville, 28-6

Healdsburg entertains Alhambra on Friday

By GREG CLEMENTI
Sports Editor
Published: Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Power and physicality is an age-old formula for winning football, whether establishing dominance on a high school field or mixing it up in the back-yard with your little brother.

The varsity football Greyhounds used both factors to their distinct advantage on Friday at McKinleyville, subduing their hosts, 28-6 in the season opener for both teams.

“It was a pretty good start for us,” said Hounds head coach Tom Kirkpatrick. “We came out and ran the ball well, everybody played a lot, and nobody got banged up.”

The Hounds benefited from strong efforts from several of their senior veterans, most notably running back Jon Cattalini, receiver/defensive back Ian Gallagher, cornerback Tanner Walker, and OL/linebacker AJ Ruiz. The foursome orchestrated many of the Hounds’ biggest plays of the night, and proved far more than the Panthers could handle.

Healdsburg will try to make it 2-0 when it entertains visiting Alhambra this Friday, Sept. 11 in the home opener at Recreation Park. Kickoff times starting with the JV are 5 and 7:30 p.m.

Healdsburg wasted no time against McKinleyville, finding pay-dirt on its opening possession in marching 60 yards on 10 plays. Cattalini did almost all of the heavy lifting, toting the rock 10 times, with the drive culminating in a short scoring burst for an early, 7-0 lead.

The Hounds were clinging to a 7-6 advantage in the second quarter when Gallagher stepped up with arguably the biggest plays of the night. The Panthers drove inside the Healdsburg five yard line, but the Healdsburg senior picked off a pass in the end zone to kill the threat.

The Greyhounds were on the march on the ensuing offensive possession, and Gallagher capped the drive with a spectacular, 37-yard touchdown grab in the Panther end zone on a ball thrown by Healdsburg quarterback Killian Collins. The score gave the Hounds a 14-6 bulge at the break.

“Those two plays by Gallagher were game-changers,” noted Kirkpatrick. “Without them it would have been a much different game.”

The Healdsburg defensive unit effectively controlled the game, with Walker hauling in a pair of drive-killing interceptions and AJ Ruiz causing havoc wherever he lined up.

In the third quarter, Ruiz blocked a McKinleyville punt, which the Panthers pounced on in their own end zone for a safety. Other big defensive plays included fumble recoveries by Mancini and Justin Furia.

Junior running back Carson Seanor got into the act in the second half, drawing blood on a two-yard dive to put the Hounds up by a pair of scores.

Cattalini put the game on ice with another late scoring run for his third of the night, en route to an eventual, 28-6 victory.

Stat leaders

Cattalini led all running backs with 114 yards rushing and three touchdowns. Seanor finished up with 72 yards on the ground and a score, while Gallagher hauled in three passes for 65 yards and a touchdown. Collins was 5-14 for 80 yards passing and one score.

Cattalini led all defenders with seven tackles, while George Brush, Gary Randolph, and Ruiz recorded sacks for the Hounds. Walker (2) and Gallagher (1) accounted for the three Healdsburg interceptions.
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