Quartz Hill Romps Past Saugus, 35-7 : Golden League: Running backs Nelson, Thomas spark Rebels to first homecoming victory since 1970.

Quartz Hill High did not waste any time Friday backing up its claim as a contender for the Golden League title.

The Rebels (5-2, 2-0 in league play) got some big plays from their special teams and running backs David Nelson and Erik Thomas to roll over Saugus, 35-7, at Quartz Hill.

Quartz Hill, winning its homecoming game for the first time since 1970, proved in the opening minutes that its stunning victory over highly-regarded Canyon last week was no fluke.

Thomas brought the wind-chilled crowd to its feet on the opening kickoff, darting 91 yards straight up the field in 10 seconds for the touchdown.

The Rebels, who enjoyed a 14-0 lead before their offense even stepped on the field, was slowed in the first half by two Thomas fumbles. Thomas’ first fumble could have been his second touchdown. The 5-foot-10, 182-pound back dropped the ball on the one-yard line trying to escape the grasp of a Saugus defender who had him by the foot.

Saugus (1-6, 0-2) started its first possession at its nine-yard line after a misplayed kickoff. After three failed runs, Thad Smith attempted his first punt in the Centurions’ end zone.

Quartz Hill’s Josh Patterson blocked Smith’s kick and Ralph Gutierrez fell on the ball in the end zone to give the Rebels a 14-0 lead less than 2 minutes 30 seconds into the game.

Saugus broke a big play when running back Greg Wright raced 74 yards down the Saugus sideline for a touchdown. Wright’s score cut the lead to 14-7, quieting the crowd momentarily.

Nelson, who gained 135 yards in 10 carries, went 80 yards off left tackle and down the sideline to give Quartz Hill a 20-7 halftime lead.

The Rebel defense looked even tougher in the second half, allowing only 12 yards.

Nelson scored again, in the third quarter, on a seven-yard sweep, giving Quartz Hill a 28-7 lead.

Thomas, who gained 123 yards in 18 raced 40 yards for his second touchdown.