Taft Makes Quick Work of Van Nuys

Taft High bounced back from a lopsided loss in its opener to roll past Van Nuys, 41-12, Friday night at Taft.

The Toreadors set the tone early, driving 63 yards in six plays to score on the game’s opening drive. Taft, which lost to second-ranked Sylmar last week, then converted on two consecutive turnovers--Van Nuys had three in the game--to build a 21-0 first-quarter lead.

Taft quarterback Nick Dipadova completed 14 of 21 passes for 222 yards and three touchdowns. Tight end Antwan Simpson caught touchdown passes covering 13 and 14 yards. Sophomore wide receiver Sedric Hurns scored on a 32-yard reception.

Running back Donald Carpenter led Taft’s ground game with 88 yards in 13 carries. Carpenter scored on runs of seven and 13 yards. The Toreadors had 420 yards in offense.

Van Nuys (1-1) got a strong second-half effort by John McPherson, who gained 94 of his 102 rushing yards after intermission. McPherson scored Van Nuys’ touchdowns on runs of two and 14 yards. Van Nuys quarterback Robert Williamson completed 16 of 31 for 137 yards and threw one interception.

Taft running back Clay Carter gained 62 yards in seven carries and scored on a 21-yard run.

Taft running back Brian Jones had 44 yards in four carries and recovered a fumble in the first quarter.