Manson Trojans defeated at home

MANSON - Manson hosted Liberty Christian (Richland) in a crossover playoff game with a trip to State on the line. Manson got on the board first with a 36 yard touchdown pass from QB Avery Thompson to Wide Receiver Alex Zaragosa. Thompson kicked the extra point and the Trojans hung onto the 7-0 lead all the way to halftime. The defense of the Trojans was absolutely lights out. Liberty Christian is a high octane passing team, but could not get anything against the tight man coverage of the Trojans.

“We knew we would need the defense tonight. We were already dinged up coming into this game and we lost one of our best offensive threats in the beginning of the 2nd quarter in running back Marco Sanchez,” said Coach Joey Johanson. “The defense absolutely showed up! They couldn’t move the ball on us.” Linebackers Bailey Cameron and Cole Beazley along with defensive end Parker Schoenwald combined for 37 tackles.

Running back Marco Sanchez started off the game hot with 3 carries of 10+ yards each including a crucial 1st down catch on a 3rd down. Unfortunately, early in the 2nd quarter Sanchez went down with a collarbone injury. “You could tell they had no answer for Marco Sanchez tonight. It was very unfortunate to lose him because he was the spark we needed. I am very proud of how hard Marco battled. He did not want to even leave the game,” said Coach Johanson. After Marco left the game Bailey Cameron took on the work load and ended up rushing for 86 yards.

Overall the Trojans played a great game. Their effort was evident all over the field tonight. The Trojans had lost to this same team earlier in the year 32-14 with a full and healthy roster. “To bounce back against this team like we did was pretty impressive. I asked the players to be very physical tonight and they took my request to heart. The hardest part of tonight was saying goodbye to another large Senior class and to many who have given and provided a lot to this program. I am very proud I had the opportunity to coach this team alongside my assistant coaches.”

Stats:
Passing: Avery Thompson, 6 for 25, 63 yards, 1 TD, 3 INT

Rushing: Bailey Cameron 17 carries for 86 yards
Marco Sanchez 3 carries for 37
Nick Strecker 10 carries for 14 yards

Receiving: Cole Beazley, 1 reception 3 yards
Alex Zaragosa 1 Reception for 36 yards, 1 TD
Marco Sanchez 2 receptions for 16 yards

Defense:
Bailey Cameron 13 Tackles
Parker Schoenwald 12 Tackles
Cole Beazley  12 Tackles
Avery Thompson 1 INT
Jesus Portillo 1 INT