Use your head instead of hitting someone else’s

This article was originally on a blog post platform and may be missing photos, graphics or links. See About archive blog posts.

Wes Fletcher may be among the most dynamic players in Orange County, certainly in the Empire League. But last week he made a fumble that could cost Placentia Valencia the outright league title.

No, not fumble literally.

Fletcher apparently slapped the head of opponent during an altercation and was ejected in the second quarter of Valencia’s 39-14 victory over Katella. His understudy, Mike Alvarez, rushed for 144 yards and four touchdowns, so it’s not like Fletcher was really missed.

But players who are ejected are, by rule, supposed to sit out the next game.

And that’s where Fletcher’s absence could really hurt. Valencia (6-1-1, 3-0) will play La Palma Kennedy (5-3, 2-1) tonight/Thursday at Western High. Kennedy is not exactly Katella (2-6, 0-3).

A victory will give Valencia the league title and the No. 1 entry into the playoffs from the league. But if it loses, there’s a probable three-way tie for first place, since Garden Grove Pacifica (6-2, 2-1) plays Loara (2-6, 1-2) at Glover Stadium.

If you’d like to see Fletcher in action, check out these YouTube highlights; it’s the only time you’ll see him in action this weekend.

-- Martin Henderson