Nighthawks Dominate Temecula Valley, 27-10

Murrieta Valley opened its Southwestern League schedule with a convincing 27-10 win over the Temecula Valley Golden Bears.

For the second consecutive game, the Nighthawk defense dominated, holding Temecula to 140 yards, 44 rushing and 76 passing. Linebackers Sam Allen,  Brandon Finne and Andrew Hudson kept the Bears contained and confused.  

TVHS could not get their offense moving the entire game. Defensive linemen Michael Payne and Noah Johnson’s aggressiveness and speed proved to be too much for the TVHS offensive line.

Jordon Silva came up with a key fumble recovery on the Murrieta 22. Terin Solomon and Damon Nolan both had drive-ending interceptions while Charlie Mckee recovered a crucial on-side kick at the end of the first half resulting in a NightHawk touchdown.  

On the offensive side of the ball, wide receiver Brandon Iacobellis teamed up with Andrew Blake for five receptions and 112 yards. Blake passed for 206 yards with two touch towns completing 13 of 18 passes. Logan Mathews connected for two Nighthawk field goals, one for 42 yards.

Murrieta’s usually dominating running tandem of Jack Magapuso and Jacob Augustine were held to 101 yards on 30 carries. 

The Bears scored on a Brett Cronewett field goal on their opening drive. A fumble on a punt inside the Nighthawks' 15-yard line resulted in a 4-yard  touchdown pass from quarterback Derrick Tarinto to Brooks Fages in the second quarter.

Murrieta Valley then proceeded to shut down the Bears' offense, holding them scoreless in the second half.

Next up for the Nighthawks is Great Oak High School, which is coming off a 42-30 victory over the Murrieta Mesa Rams.