SOUTHERN SECTION FOOTBALL PLAYOFFS: DIVISION VI : Mistake-Prone Anaheim Wins

Anaheim High School overcame 5 lost fumbles Friday to post a 16-6 victory over Artesia before 1,800 at La Palma Stadium in a Southern Section Division VI first-round playoff game.

With senior tailback Johnny Mountain gaining 130 yards in 22 carries, Anaheim (7-4) was in control most of the game. However, the lost fumbles, 4 of them in Artesia territory, kept Anaheim from pulling away.

Artesia (8-2-1) scored the first time it had the ball, with junior tailback Robert Matos getting the touchdown on a 7-yard run. Anaheim’s Mike Madrigal blocked the extra point.

After the Pioneers’ touchdown, Anaheim moved into Artesia territory 4 times in the first half but came away with only a 47-yard field goal by junior Art Palamares.

An interception in the third period by defensive back Robert Aldaz, his second of the game, gave Anaheim its break at the Artesia 40. The Colonists scored 5 plays later on a 19-yard run by senior tailback Justin Wons, giving Anaheim the lead with a minute left in the third quarter.

Senior defensive back Steve Gorton ensured the victory with less than a minute left when he intercepted a Troy Goddard pass and returned it 16 yards for a touchdown.