Simi Valley Nips Granada Hills

A pair of third-quarter touchdowns by Simi Valley stood up when Granada Hills kicker Jordan De Jong missed a 23-yard field-goal attempt late in the game, allowing the Pioneers to escape with a 14-13 win on Friday night.

Quarterback Brian MacLean helped move Granada Hills into position for the kick, completing four passes as the Highlanders drove from their 46 to the Simi Valley 18. Running back Eric Richardson then carried twice to the six, where Granada Hills chose to kick.

Unfortunately for the Highlanders, De Jong’s attempt was low and wide right, giving Simi Valley possession.

But the Pioneers still weren’t safe.

Simi Valley running back Chris Miller fumbled three plays later at his 27, giving Granada Hills another opportunity. However, the Highlanders moved backward to their 44 and didn’t threaten.

Simi Valley’s Anthony Tauriello intercepted as fourth-down desperation pass by MacLean to seal the Pioneers’ victory.

Granada Hills led, 13-0, in the second half before the Pioneers (2-0) made their move.

J.J. Washington closed the margin to 13-7 when he caught a 14-yard pass from quarterback Tim Bennett.

Three plays later, Brian Kavanaugh stepped in front of a MacLean pass and returned it 34 yards for the winning touchdown.

Afri Walker scored on a 34-yard pass from MacLean in the first quarter for a 7-0 edge.