It’s been three weeks of frustration for Ayala and Isiah Flowers. They’ve lost three in a row. (Photo by Andrew Bettridge)
By Joseph Rodriguez
(Chino Hills)-Bonita dominated both sides of the ball in the first half holding Ayala scoreless to lead 20-0 and went on to win 34-14 Friday night. The Bulldogs didn’t do themselves any favors in a first half that was marred by a turnover, penalties, and a stagnant offense. Down 7-0 Ayala botched a punt that was recovered by Bonita which led to a 35 yard field goal to increase their deficit to 10-0. After another Bonita touchdown, Ayala responded by driving 75 yards to the Bearcats one yard line. With 1st and goal from the one, the Bearcats defense came up huge shutting down the Bulldogs to force a turnover on downs. On their ensuing possession Bonita kicked a 35 yard field goal to go into the half 20-0. Just like that, a ten point swing in Bonita’s favor left Ayala’s sideline dejected.
The second half started with more of the same, Bonita scored on their first possession when Tanner East found Danny Gelalich for 16 yard TD reception. With about four minutes left in the third the weather began to change, as a steady mist of rain came down. Just as the game seemed to get uglier due to the weather, Ayala began to play inspired football. Ayala scored two touchdowns with 2 minutes to cut Bonita’s lead 28-14. What seemed as an improbable comeback fuelled by Halloween magic was coming to fruition quickly. One their next drive the Bulldogs drove to the Bearcats one just as the rain began to let up. One yard away from closing the led 28-21 seemed apparent with 1st and goal. But reminiscent of their 1st half stand, the Bearcats goal line defense stood strong. Helped by a fumbled snap on 4th and goal, they forced a turnover on downs. Bonita then iced the game when Danny Gelalich broke loose for a 91 yard TD run. After the missed extra point Bonita led 34-14, and this became the game final.
- Bonita is at Claremont next week
- Ayala is at Diamond Bar next week
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