Defense Sparks Ventura, 31-16

Three interceptions and Chris Ryan’s 42-yard return of a blocked punt for a touchdown sparked Ventura High to a 31-16 Channel League victory over Santa Barbara on Friday night at Ventura, keeping the Cougars’ playoff hopes alive.

Ryan’s return midway through the first quarter was set up when Donell Wickett blocked a punt on the Dons’ opening possession.

Matt White’s 36-yard field goal with 9:33 left in the second quarter gave Ventura (4-5, 4-2 in league play) a 10-0 halftime lead. On the first play of the third quarter, Oscar Tovar’s interception and 22-yard return set up Brian Bushnell’s 10-yard score to extend the lead to 17-0.

Later in the quarter, Eric Olson intercepted a pass and returned it 36 yards to set up a one-yard scoring run by Aaron Davis. Eric Blair added a 25-yard scoring run in the fourth quarter.

The Dons (5-3-1, 3-2-1) rushed for only 16 yards.