By Rich Whittington
(Rosemead) – The Rosemead Panthers took a big step toward the CIF Playoffs Thursday evening, as the host Panthers blasted the visiting El Monte Lions, 37-0, in front of a small, yet vocal, assembly at Rod Marinelli Stadium.
The Panthers opened the scoring in the middle of the second quarter of play, when Angel Bernal converted a 28-yard Field Goal Attempt. Rosemead added to the score with :34 remaining in the game’s opening half, when QB Damien Martinez connected with RB Jaydon Martinez for a 73-yard catch and run. Bernal added the extra point, making the score 10-0, Rosemead, as the first half ended.
Rosemead broke the game open in the third quarter, finding the endzone on three additional occasions. RB Jaydon Martinez scored his second TD of the evening on a 42-yard scoring sprint. Martinez would score again, just two minutes later, on a 10-yard TD blast. QB Martinez also added to the scoring frenzy, finding WR Nick Ostry for a 67-yard TD connection. Three more successful Bernal PAT’s made the score 31-0, Panthers, at the end of the third quarter
Rosemead’s final score of the evening was provided by QB Martinez, who connected with Bernal for a 68-yard TD completion. The PAT attempt was no good, making the score 37-0, Rosemead, as the game came to an end.
El Monte was never able to find their stride during the contest. Several promising drives were stalled by turnovers, penalties, and injuries to key personnel.
With the win, Rosemead (4-5, 3-1 in Mission Valley League play) assumes sole possession of second place in the Mission valley League.
Rosemead will finish their MVL season on 10/29/21, when the Panthers host the South El Monte Eagles. The Lions (3-5, 2-2 in the MVL) will complete their league campaign by visiting the Gabrielino Eagles, also on 10/29/21. Kickoff for both contests is scheduled for 7:00 PM.
After a sloppy first half, The panthers only led 10-0. Then Rosemead turned it in and showed why their the number 2 in the MVL. Rosemead has some weapons for sure.I think they can make some noise in CIF but the have to clean up the penalties. After seeing Rosemead tonight makes me believe Arroyo is the real deal.