Century League

Canyon 18, El Modena 6--For the first time since the Comanches joined the league, they got the monkey off their back. Canyon stunned the Vanguards at Fred Kelly Stadium in Orange.

The ever-improving Comanches (1-2, 3-5), who had lost nine consecutive years to El Modena dating back to 1978, finally received some redemption after the years of frustration.

“I’m simply elated,” said Canyon coach Rod Hust. “This is the best we’ve played this year, but we have to keep winning to stay in the hunt for the playoffs.”

The Comanches struck twice in the second quarter, senior running back Ray Schull scoring on runs of 2 and 5 yards, to give Canyon a 12-0 halftime edge. Senior linebacker Todd Davis setup the second touchdown when Vanguard running back Ross Bauer fumbled after a 10-yard gain at the El Modena 30 yard line. Davis returned it 13 yards to the 17. Two plays later Schull scored from 5 yards out.

Davis recovered another fumble midway through third quarter to stop another El Modena drive.

Turnovers cost the Vanguards all night long, as sophomore quarterback Trey Frank was intercepted three times.

Canyon took the lead 18-0 early in the third quarter when senior quarterback Matt Waddell connected with wide receiver Ralph Pacheco for a 39-yard touchdown.

El Modena’s (2-1, 4-4) only score came midway in the third quarter when Bauer (22 carries, 135 yards) carried over from 1 yard out.

Canyon outplayed and outgained the Vanguards offensively 274 total yards to 231. The Comanches rushed for 203 yards, led by Schull with 71 yards in 18 carries.