El Toro’s First-Half Burst Sinks Outmanned Fountain Valley

Rob Johnson, El Toro High School’s talented quarterback, lifted his long arms and offered his father, Coach Bob Johnson, a high-five after leading the Chargers to their fifth touchdown Friday night at Mission Viejo High School.

Remarkably, there were still 5 minutes 20 seconds remaining to play in the first half and Rob Johnson was calling it a night after building a 37-point lead against an outmanned Fountain Valley team. It was short work for the county’s top-ranked team, but then, this type of game could become routine before the season is over.

El Toro had more than enough offense in its home opener, rolling to a 40-0 victory. It was Fountain Valley’s second straight loss to a member of the South Coast League. Last week, Dana Hills beat the Barons, 27-7.

Johnson completed all but one of his eight pass attempts in the first half for 138 yards and three touchdowns before retiring. Johnson has passed for five touchdowns in a little over four quarters of play. He completed passes to six different receivers with tight end David Canfield catching two passes for 65 yards.

Tailback Bret Sanders gained 47 yards in four carries and had a 12-yard run and a 14-yard pass for touchdowns.

Kicker Brad Hulse added field goals of 37 and 49 yards, the latter establishing a school record. But despite the big numbers, it was the Chargers’ defense that was most impressive.

Linebackers Mike Nelson and Brian Haas helped El Toro limit Fountain Valley to minus-one yard in the first quarter and only 21 yards in the half. Fountain Valley didn’t record a first down until 6:52 remained in the half.

Nelson recovered a fumble at Fountain Valley’s seven-yard line, setting up the Chargers’ first touchdown. Nose guard Matt Krajec set up another score when he recovered an errant lateral at Fountain Valley’s 14-yard line.

Finally, defensive back Jason Bailey intercepted a pass at midfield and returned it to Fountain Valley’s 32-yard line. El Toro’s longest drive was only 53 yards as Fountain Valley gave the Chargers possessions at its seven-, 14- and 32-yard lines.

“Are we big up front defensively, or what?” said Bob Johnson afterward. Johnson was referring to his four down linemen, who average 230 pounds. “I thought our offense was pretty awesome tonight too.”

It was El Toro’s second lopsided victory in as many weeks. Last Friday, El Toro dominated Wyoming Valley West of Pennsylvania, scoring a 41-0 victory. The Chargers have outscored two opponents, 81-0.

Wyoming Valley had only 75 yards in total offense and afterward, Rob Johnson said, “I can’t imagine a team rushing for 100 yards against our defense.”