Sailor Backs Triple Team Orange, 28-10

Getting strong performances from three running backs and quarterback John Giordani, Newport Harbor beat Orange, 28-10, in a nonleague game Thursday.

It was the season-opener for both teams.

Brian Johnson, Edon Kagasoff and Jeremy Mason combined to rush for 229 yards.

Johnson had the biggest game, gaining 108 yards in 11 carries. His 46-yard touchdown run around left end gave Newport Harbor a 21-10 lead with 9 minutes 20 seconds left in the third quarter. Johnson, who fumbled on his first carry to set up Orange’s touchdown, had a nine-yard touchdown run in the second quarter to put Newport Harbor up 14-7 with 5:11 left.

Johnson also had a run of 31 yards, which led to the final touchdown.

Newport went up 28-10 on an 18-yard scoring pass from Giordani to Jon Benzinger with 30 seconds left in the third quarter.

Kagasoff was at his best in the first quarter. Newport Harbor’s second drive stalled and the Sailors punted. But Orange was called for too many players on the field and Newport Harbor got a first down at its own 32.

Kagasoff ran the ball the next six plays, capping it with a five-yard scoring run up the middle. His longest gain was for 26 yards as he gained 67 of his 80 yards in the series.

Mason, who did all his rushing in the second half, had 41 yards in 13 carries.

“It was tailback by committee,” Newport Harbor Coach Jeff Brinkley said. “We thought it might be that way. All three are very talented.”