Western Runs Over Brea-Olinda

Western High School amassed 240 yards rushing and limited opposing quarterback Chad Marlow to 45 yards passing in a 28-7 victory over Brea-Olinda in the Orange League opener for both schools Thursday night in Handel Stadium.

Western (5-1, 1-0) scored on its first possession and then stunned Brea with a two-point conversion pass for an 8-0 lead. Western built a 21-0 lead in the first half with its offensive line dominating play.

Eight players took turns running against Brea with quarterback Gilbert Brito gaining 78 yards, halfback Barry Howell rushing for 57 yards and reserve Shane Foss adding 35 yards.

“Our offensive line kind of staggered the last couple of games and we had problems rushing,” said Jim Howell, Western’s coach. “I don’t think Brea played the caliber of teams we did in the preseason, and it showed tonight.”

Brea (5-1, 0-1) failed to establish a running game, so Marlow’s passing game was ineffective. Marlow, the county’s third-rated quarterback, completed three of 15 passes and threw his first two interceptions of the season.

Marlow also fumbled during Brea’s only drive in the first half, and Western’s Gabriel Ramirez scooped up the ball and ran 67 yards for a touchdown to give Western a 15-0 lead.

“The fumble was the turning point in the game,” said Jon Looney, Brea’s coach. “We were finally putting something together, and it looked like we were going to do something. But we didn’t deserve to win.

“We didn’t play well at all, and I don’t know why. We’ve been working for three years toward this season, and then we play like that in our first league game. I don’t understand it.”

Brea figured to be a strong contender with six-time champion Valencia and Western for the league title, but it now appears the league title will be decided on Nov. 4 when Valencia plays host to Western at Bradford Stadium. Howell is looking forward to the game.

“We always feel we can play with Valencia,” Howell said. “We don’t seem to get the credit they do, but we’ve beaten them four times in eight years. Of course, we have two more games before we play Valencia, but yes, we’re looking forward to the challenge.”