With additional reporting by George Laase.
The Culver City High School football team dashed into the winner’s circle last Friday, scoring their first victory, 41-28, at Peninsula.
Already they are ahead of last year.
The Centaurs needed eight weeks before reaching their first win.
At 1-1, the Centaurs will hit the road Friday for a 7 o’clock game at San Pedro. “”They will be tough, but we will have a good game plan,” said Coach Jahmal Wright.
Scoring 41 points last week after being shut out 22-0 in their opener against West Torrance, signaled another significant improvement.
“The offense opened up a little bit,” said Wright. “It was not a clean game but it was a good team win. All our players got into the game. We needed this win so we can feel good about ourselves.”
Going in, Culver City knew it held a speed advantage. “We were able to put our guys in situations to take advantage of our speed and athletic ability,” said Wright.
For speed, Cahlil Hooper’s is one of the first names mentioned. The running back/defensive back may be the fastest player in the Ocean League.
Hooper ran for two touchdowns, gaining 89 yards on seven carries against the Panthers. “Great blocking by the offensive line,” said Hooper. “I would like to thank the boys up front for getting the job done. I love Culver City.”
Another speedster who like Culver City’s blocking is running back Fred Poindexter. He ran for 106 yards in 11 carries.
In two games, he has gained 197 yards rushing, averaging a whopping 9.4 yards per carry. “We won the game with teamwork,” Poindexter said. “Everyone played hard all the way to the end.
“We need to keep pushing towards a common goal. Everyone needs to give their best effort. We need to keep our heads in the game.”
Among others who had strong games:
- Quarterback Jonathan Martin was 15-28 passing for 290 yards and three touchdowns.
- Mason Mulvihill caught six passes for 186 yards and two touchdowns.
- Mekhi Ware played well on offense.
The offensive line did an excellent job attacking Peninsula’s defensive line.
On defense, Mulvihill made six tackles and had two interceptions.
Elijah Zavala and Kyle McKinniss were credited with nine tackles each.
Cameryn Newman not only made five tackles but he had two sacks.
Mr. Finley may be contacted at sfinley50@aol.com
Mr. Laase may be contacted at GMLaase@aol.com
