Stories by James Nguyen, Photos by Chris Wells
The Barons crushed Baldwin Park in its second preseason game, 43-6 at Westminster High School on Friday.
“I think it was an overall team effort, you know?” head coach Ray Fenton said. “We talked about, before the game, that everybody has to do their jobs… whether you’re on the sideline, you have to do your job, and I think it was a complete program win.”
The defense took the opportunity to score a safety when Baldwin’s quarterback failed to catch a snap, putting the Barons up two points early in the game.
Fountain Valley’s offense carried momentum with quarterback Chad Olberding (’16) rushing 15 yards for the first touchdown. He scored two additional touchdowns, helping them pulled ahead.
The Barons began to score one touchdown after another. Stone Escobedo (’15) picked up an interception and scrambled to the end zone, while Hunter Margain (’15) forced a fumble, helping the defense leave the Braves scoreless by the end of the half.
Fountain Valley’s special team also deserves credit. Sal Ochoa (‘15) scored two 55 yard punt return touchdowns, flashing through the defense. Javier Campos (‘16) managed to convert all the extra points.
The Barons ended the first half at 43-0.
The Baldwin Park Braves didn’t come away empty-handed however, scoring a late touchdown that pushed the final score to 43-6.
While it was a blowing victory for the Barons, there is still some work left to do.
“We need to improve on making less mistakes,” Olberding (‘16) said.
The team is now looking forward to the next game at Trabuco Hills High School.
“Next game we got a tough game with Trabuco Hills, and I think we’re going to be ready for it” said Escobedo (‘15).
That’s my kid. Escobedo. Way to play Barons!