Buena Park Ends 11-Game Skid With Victory Over Brea Olinda

BUENA PARK — After 11 consecutive losses, Buena Park’s football team ended its frustration by beating Brea Olinda, 9-7, Thursday night at Buena Park High.

The game ended on an emotional note as Buena Park players jumped for joy and fell to their knees.

“The heart wasn’t there last year,” first-year Coach Manny Saiz said. “I tried to instill heart and commitment this year.”

And plenty of defense too.

The Coyotes’ defense stopped Brea Olinda twice on fourth-and-three situations--at the Buena Park 12 and Buena Park 28--in the third quarter.

On the first play, Jabari Phillips sacked Brea Olinda quarterback Matt Kalcevich for a one-yard loss. On the second, Kalcevich threw and incomplete pass.

Was Saiz surprised Brea Olinda went for it?

“Not really,” Saiz said. “I’m glad they did.”

Especially the way Buena Park was playing defense.

Buena Park’s Oscar Madrigal recovered Jess Vargas’ fumble with 6:21 remaining in the fourth quarter and Buena Park’s Brian McDonald intercepted a pass with 3:42 remaining.

McDonald rushed for 85 yards 20 carries and Ruben Gasso completed seven of eight passes for 75 yards and one touchdown.

Brea Olinda took a 7-3 lead in the second quarter on a one-yard touchdown run by Dick Bravo.

On the next series, the Coyotes regained the the lead on Gasso’s 24-yard touchdown pass to Brett Strike.