The Los Altos High School varsity football team won 34–2 against the Rancho San Juan High School Trailblazers on Thursday, September 5. The home-crowd victory was a welcome change from their devastating 56–0 loss to Calaveras High School the week before.
“I think the coaches knew what we needed to change after the last game,” senior Fisher Sirey said. “We had our week of practice and worked to fix some of those mistakes.”
Within the first few minutes, senior Colton Caputo intercepted a Rancho San Juan pass. From there the Eagles quickly built momentum — the first quarter ended 10–0, following a 44-yard pass touchdown exchanged between sophomore Giancarlo Mendoza and junior Gavin Wu.
“We kept on executing great plays better than we did the first week, so there were real signs of progression,” Head Coach Mark Adams said. “It’s about the kids’ first win this year after all the work they’ve put in.”
The Eagles’ defense stayed strong throughout the second quarter, giving no points to the Trailblazers. According to Adams, they were making plenty of substitutions so they could find the best team to have on the field.
“We have to evaluate who we think are the right players on the field at the right moment,” Adams said. “That takes time, so this team has gotten through more than the average team in the league.”
With a strong team behind him, Colton kicked off the third quarter with a 76-yard touchdown. On the next drive, he caught a pass to put the Eagles in position for a field goal. While the Los Altos defense held strong, Colton snatched a second interception — and touchdown — in the remaining four minutes, ending the quarter 27–0.
“We came in with a lot more energy,” senior Miles Field said. “The guys were more motivated to make plays and hit people hard to keep the momentum of the touchdowns.”
Senior Michael Manche put the Eagles up 34–0 during the fourth quarter with the last touchdown of the night. Eventually, the Trailblazers pushed the Eagles’ defense right to the end zone line, marking their strongest play. However, after two failed attempts at a touchdown, Rancho San Juan was able to the board with a safety, putting the score at 34–2.
“My goal for the team is to work hard and be competitive, and to get better every day.” Adams said. “The rest will take care of itself.”
The Eagles now have a 1-1 record and will play the Menlo High School Knights at home this Friday, September 13 at 7 p.m.
