MidValleySports.Com

UCLA first-year head coach Bob Chesney.

By Rich Whittington

(Pasadena) – The UCLA Bruins Blue Team beat the UCLA White Team 24-17 in their annual Spring game Saturday morning at the Rose Bowl. Each team had two opportunities to score in the first quarter. This however produced no points as both teams tested their limits while attempting to feel out their opponent.

UCLA quarterback Nico Iamaleava

The period ended with a skills contest pitting receivers against defensive backs. This contest was won by the Blue team thanks to an interception by Blue defensive back DB CJ Lavender. This gave them 5 points making the score 5-0 at the end of the first quarter.

The White team began to show their abilities in the second quarter scoring on all three of their second quarter possessions. Mateo Orosco started the scoring by successfully converting a 57-yard field goal.

White added to their score on their next possession as Anthony Woods scored on a 5-yard TD blast. The PAT was added by Orosco making the score 10-5 with 6:08 remaining in the half.

The White team added to their score when Nico Iamaleava connected with receiver Brian Rowe for a 4-yard score. Orosco added his second PAT of the quarter making the score 17-5 as the first half ended.

Bruins’ Blue added to their score in the opening drive of the third quarter when Madden Iamaleava connected with Landon Ellis on a 7-yard TD toss. The extra point was added by Mateen Bhaghani making the score 17-12 as the football portion of the third quarter came to an end.

Another skills competition ensued. This time offensive lineman were pitted against defensive Lineman from the opposing team. When the dust cleared the Blue team was again victorious. This tied the score at 17-17 after three quarters of play.

Cole Martin and Kenneth Moore III at the podium.

The Blue team took the lead in the final quarter when Madden Iamaleava connected with Kenneth Moore III for his second TD of the afternoon…a 40-yard scoring completion. A second Bhaghani PAT made the score 24-17 with 4:16 remaining in the contest.

White had a final opportunity to tie the game. However their drive stalled on the one-yard line giving Blue the seven-point victory.