The San Diego Stallions made the trip up to the San Fernando Valley during the 2007 pre-season to take on the Valley Trojans. And after playing a hard fought game, they went home having given up over 250 rushing yards to the Trojans, and losing the game 27-12. So, going into the 2008 season, you know they were looking for some payback!
The Trojans accepted the challenge, and the commute to San Diego. And why not, the Stallions are a very well run organization, with good talent and something to prove. So, the rematch was on!
The game was originally scheduled for 7pm, but was later changed to a 4pm kickoff. Only one issue, the ref's didn't get that memo! So, as 4pm approached, there were no ref's at the field. The Stallion's owners scrambled to get a hold of them, and did; they were in route... but we did not have a solid ETA. Luckily the game was able to start at about 5pm. Crisis avoided... Let's play football!
With the opening kickoff, the Trojans would receive, but on the return, the ball was fumbled and recovered by the Stallions!
The Trojans have been a defensive minded team for the previous two seasons, and nothing seemed to change when they took to the field. Some new faces were out there, but the intensity has picked up a notch! The Defense would not allow the Stallions offense any breathing room, and got the ball back to the offense.
On the offensive side of the ball for the Trojans it is a big mix of new and returning players. Most noticeable is in the back field with two new Quarterbacks, and a new running back. The offensive line welcomes some new blood as well. And with this, they were able to mix it up and move the ball.
Although the first drive did not amount to any points, the team knew they had something to build on! In the fist quarter the offense would get in range for a 27 yard Chris Guardado (K #14) field goal, which was good! Giving the Trojans a 3-0 lead.
The ball would change hands a few more times with no scoring, but in the middle of the second quarter, the offense came to life with a big play from rookie (QB #17) Mike Carlstrom on a 32 yard pass to a streaking Anthony Celestine (WR #4). The extra point was good and the Trojans lead 10-0.
The Defense would continue to make their mark on the game, but punctuated it late in the second quarter. When forcing the Stallions to punt, Marcus Kelly (SS #5), came flying trough to block the punt sending it backwards. Kelly would scramble to scoop and score, and extend the lead to 17-0 with the extra point. And that was the score at the half.
The second quarter saw a new QB for the Trojans offense, Ole Olson (QB #16) came in and lead the Trojans down the field a few times, yet they were not able to punch the ball into the end zone. Coming close on a pass that was intercepted at the last second to break up the TD. The Trojans also would attempt an ill-advised 57 yard field goal, into the wind that went wide left and about 15 yards short.
During the final drive of the game, Olson would lead the Offense down the field one more time. And on a 40 yard, acrobatic reception by Celestine, the Trojans were inside the 5 yard line with :30 seconds on the clock... But, with the lead at 17-7, the white hat ref pleaded with the offense to take a knee and run out the clock... so they did, and that was the final.
It was a great game for both sides to test out their new players and evaluate their overall team. The Trojans got a great look at what they will be working with, along with having a few key players still away playing professional football, or rehabbing injuries. It will be an exciting season for the 2008 Valley Trojans.
Final Score: Valley Trojans 17 - San Diego Stallions 7
Notable Stats:
Offense:
Anthony Celestine (WR #4)- 5 rec, 136 yards, 1 TD
Donald Carpenter (RB #1) - 14 carries, 83 yards
Defense:
Nick Skopphammer (DE #96) - 8 tackles, 6 sacks
Nathan Bosinger (LB #7) - 10 tackles, 2 sacks
Marcus Kelly (SS #5) - 6 tackles, 1 FF, 1 FR, 1 TD
For complete stats, click here.
The Valley Trojans would like to thank the San Diego Stallions for hosting this match! The Stallions organization is a class act! Good luck in the 2008 LCFL West!
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