Football: Will to win never in doubt with Travis Waller

After sitting out a majority of Friday night’s game with an apparent foot injury, possibly a toe or ankle, Travis Waller was frustrated with watching from the sidelines. Accordingly, the senior quarterback from Anaheim Servite convinced the Friars coaching staff that he was capable of returning to the field.

Inserted back underneath center toward the end of the third quarter, the 6-foot-3 and 190-pound Oregon commit provided an immediate spark. In the end, however, his efforts came up short in a 20-17 loss to Santa Ana Mater Dei in a Trinity League showdown at Cerritos College.

Trailing in the fourth quarter, Waller made things happen. On an option play in the red zone, he drew the defense toward him and pitched the ball to Tate Beachley, who scored on a three-yard run to give the Friars a 17-13 advantage with 7:05 remaining left. That would be their last lead, though.

With plenty at stake, injured or not, Waller had good reason for a sense of urgency. The setback to the Monarchs (6-1, 1-1) now puts the Friars (4-3, 1-1) in an unfavorable position in the league standings. Taking a step back was not an option for Waller & Co. before the opening kickoff.

In other action on Friday night, Bellflower St. John Bosco made plays when needed and defeated San Juan Capistrano JSerra, 49-44. Sean McGrew scored five touchdowns against the Lions (6-1, 1-1) as the Braves (6-1, 2-0) successfully took over sole possession of first place in league.

A healthy Waller is a must now. Worth noting, he walked under his own power, albeit gingerly, after the game. Regardless of the upcoming diagnosis, based on his desire to return against the Monarchs, chances are he’ll be ready for next week’s league game against Santa Margarita (5-2, 1-1).

Sean Ceglinsky has covered sports in the Southland for the better part of the past 15-plus years. Follow him on Twitter: @SeanCeglinsky