Short-Handed Fullerton Makes Too Many Mistakes in 13-7 Loss

With four starters out because of disciplinary reasons, Fullerton made too many mistakes and came up short in a 13-7 loss to Whittier California in a nonleague game Friday night at California High School.

The mistakes started early when a number of missed tackles led to a 75-yard touchdown run by California’s Charles Ramirez and a 7-0 lead with 4:16 to play in the first quarter.

After a field goal increased the lead late in the second quarter, Ramirez struck again with a 40-yard punt return. Peter Saldana hit a 26-yard field goal to give the Condors (2-0) a 13-0 lead at halftime.

Fullerton (1-1) started strong in the second quarter, marching 82 yards in 15 plays. But the Indians came up short and turned the ball over on downs.

The Indians scored soon after when a blocked punt resulted in a safety.

On the ensuing drive, Fullerton again drove deep into Condor territory, but had to settle for a field goal and a 13-5 deficit.

Four minutes later, the Indians cut the lead to 13-7 when California back-up quarterback Tim Leuschner slipped in the end zone for another safety.

Fullerton had one last possession with 1:48 left to play, but an interception by California’s Patrick Lucero ended the drive and the game for the Indians.