LOS GATOS, Calif. - San Benito traveled north on Friday night to take on a powerful Los Gatos football squad, who had already put up an impressive 110 points in their first two games. The Balers suffered a similar defeat to Los Gatos' first two opponents, as the Wildcats recorded their third straight victory, defeating San Benito 35-8.
San Benito showcased their renowned wishbone offense, which gave Los Gatos some trouble early in the game. The Haybalers slowly ran the ball deep into Wildcat territory on their first drive. However, on San Benito’s first pass attempt, Jared Mazzaferro from the Los Gatos defense landed a huge hit on quarterback Michael McShane, which was enough to pop the ball out into the hands of Adam Garwood, giving Los Gatos the football on its own 16.
San Benito had a few more opportunities throughout the game, but Los Gatos was able to hold the Balers to one touchdown and a two-point conversion. Ronny Moore played a huge role on the defensive line, contributing to a lot of crucial stops on fourth down while in the red zone.
“They like running it up the A gap,” said Moore. “We eliminated that option by just having two big bodies inside the A gap every single time.”
On the offensive side of the ball, Los Gatos was able to tear up the San Benito defense with a wide range of running and passing plays. Coming off of the first fumble, Los Gatos marched down the field on a long drive that resulted in a six-yard touchdown rush from Garwood.
At the start of the second quarter, Los Gatos quarterback Yost Girvan scored on a 15-yard keeper. Girvan later connected with Gian Lagemann for a 26-yard touchdown pass.
“He has such an ability to see the field and tuck and run, which is an element that defenses have to account for,” stated Los Gatos head coach Mark Krail.
Two rushing touchdowns from Mason Holbrook along with five good PATs from kicker Ty Goldsbury put the Wildcats at 35, which is actually their lowest scoring game so far this season.
Los Gatos will face off against school rival Saratoga (3-0) with an away league match-up next Friday. San Benito has a bye, but will prepare for a home game against Aptos (1-2) in two weeks.
“We just have to get ready for Aptos,” said San Benito head coach Bryan Smith. “I imagine they’ll be drooling over the buck sweep Los Gatos ran against us here all night.”
