Late Kickoff Return Clinches Artists’ Victory Over Matadors

Laguna Beach opened its season Friday night with a 17-6 victory over host Bolsa Grande.

The Artists opened the scoring early in the first quarter with a 30-yard field goal by Brad Bohn. Later in the quarter, fullback Casey Sabol scored from one yard to complete a 16-yard drive.

James Kimball of Laguna Beach led a balanced attack, completing eight of 13 attempts for 138 yards. Senior wing back Liam McDonough caught two passes for 32 yards and had a 75-yard kickoff return during the fourth quarter. Sabol rushed for 62 yards in 20 carries.

“We had been setting up our returns to the right all night,” McDonough said. “I figured that if I went inside and back out, I could get through for a big return.”

“That play really boosted our team,” Kimball said. “We needed a big break play at that time and McDonough came through.”

Laguna Beach’s defense contributed to the scoring when defensive tackle Marcus Weening tackled the Matadors Victor Alvarez in the end zone for a safety.

Bolsa Grande senior Josh Price completed nine of 20 passes for 149 yards, connecting with wide receiver Vin Trin three times for 102 yards.