Nighthawks Fall to Chaparral 35-7

The Pumas came into town Thursday night and punished the Nighthawks on their way to a one-sided victory to close out the regular season. Both teams join Vista Murrieta with CIF playoff berths next Friday.  

Chaparral’s defense completely shut down Murrieta Valley’s offense the entire evening and forced several turnovers. The Pumas ended up recovering two fumbles and an interception. Defensive end Damon Watkins led the Puma attack on Nighthawk quarterback Andrew Blake with 2.5 sacks, and Skyler Seibold had the interception.  

Chaparral overwhelmed Murrieta Valley's offensive line and kept the Nighthawks' dynamic running attack of Jack Magpuaso and Jacob Augustine to a mere 18 yards. Murrieta Valley did not manage to get a first down for the first 20 minutes of the game.

The passing game was also missing in the first half. Blake started slow but ended the game 14-22 with 177 yards. Jaleel Shabazz and Magpuaso had four receptions each.  

Murrieta Valley found itself in poor field position all night long. The Nighthawks did manage to force several Puma turnovers, recovering three fumbles and intercepting a Matt Morin pass.

The normally resilient Nighthawk defense gave up a season high 389 yards rushing. The team aims to focus and bring back the intensity that took them to a 7-3 record this season.

“We’ve got to get going. We have a playoff game next week," said Coach Greg Ireland.

In other area games, Vista Murrieta held Murrieta Mesa to a 51-20 final score. Calvary Murrieta was to meet Ontario Christian at 7:30 p.m. Friday.

--Contributed by Charles Mckee