ORANGE COUNTY PREP FOOTBALL : Villa Park Regroups for Victory

After a disappointing season in 1986, Villa Park High School proved to be an improved football team as the Spartans held off Pacifica, 7-6, in the nonleague season-opener for both at Fred Kelly Stadium Thursday night in front of 1,000.

Villa Park returned 15 starters from last season’s team that was 2-8 and last in the Century League.

“We are a better football team than last year,” said Pat Mahoney, Villa Park coach. “I feel we are now capable of competing with anyone.”

Villa Park used a ball-control offense led by senior fullback John Genova, who gained 129 yards in 19 carries and tailback John Chorbagian, who gained 65 yards in 12 carries.

Genova scored the Spartans’ only touchdown on a one-yard run with 1:18 left in the first half. Ryan Hayes’ extra point gave Villa Park a 7-6 lead.

Pacifica scored a touchdown when sophomore fullback Rob Shockley broke a 44-yard run off right tackle midway through the second quarter.

The extra point was missed when the snap was low and kicker Oscar Ravelo was forced to pass.

Midway through the third quarter, Villa Park defensive back Lance Rabun stopped a Pacifica drive with an interception. He stepped in front of Ravelo on the Villa Park 30 to intercept Shelby Hart’s pass.

Pacifica outgained Villa Park in total yards, 249-180.