By Rich Whittington
(El Monte) The San Gabriel Matadors handed El Monte its first loss of the 2025 season Friday evening, defeating the Lions 28-21, in front of a sizable Homecoming assembly at El Monte’s own Lions Stadium.
San Gabriel used a very effective “big play, quick strike” playing style to take an early lead in the contest, scoring on their second offensive play. A 79-yard completion from quarterback Ricky Garcia to wide receiver Aaron Rojas gave the Matadors the early lead. The PAT was added by kicker Christopher Ramirez, giving San Gabriel a 7-0 lead with 10:57 remaining in the contest’s opening quarter.
El Monte tied the score a few minutes later, when quarterback Alex Aleman scored on a 3-yard blast. Kicker Aaron Rivera added the PAT, making the score 7-7 as the first quarter expired.
San Gabriel took the lead in the second stanza, when linebacker Kenji Leos returned an intercepted Aleman offering 92 yards for the Matadors second score of the evening. A second Ramirez PAT made the score 14-7 with 8:12 remaining in the game’s opening half.
The Lions knotted things at 14, when Rivera scored from his running back position, on a 3-yard touchdown pop. Rivera, for good measure, also added his second successful PAT of the evening.
El Monte added another score in the period, when Aleman connected with tight end Anthony Ramirez for a 34-yard catch and run. A third Rivera kick made the score 21-14, with 1:36 remaining in the first half of play.
San Gabriel would tie the score with another big play, as Garcia connected with receiver Noah Osorio for a 60-yard touchdown. A third successful Ramirez extra point made the score 21-21 at the break.
Scoring was more difficult in the second half. The third quarter saw both defenses stiffen, with drives ending in turnovers, punts, and turning the ball over on downs.
San Gabriel took the lead for good in the fourth quarter, when Garcia again connected with Rojas for a 10-yard score. Rivera booted another extra point making the score 28-21, with 3:26 remaining in the game.
El Monte’s final attempts fell short, sealing the victory for the Matadors.
El Monte’s next contest is next Friday night when the Lions will host the California Condors. San Gabriel’s next game, also Friday night is another road affair, as the Matadors travel to Carpinteria to meet the 1-0 Warriors. Kickoff for both contests is scheduled for 7:00 PM.
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