In General, Sylmar Is Far Superior

If Washington High was supposed to be Sylmar’s toughest test of the preseason, then the rest of the Valley Pac-8 Conference--and the City Section for that matter--had better beware.

After exchanging touchdowns early on, the Spartans began dominating, rolling to a 42-7 victory over the Generals on Friday night at Sylmar High.

What was even more impressive than the score was the way Sylmar (1-0) handled Washington, which last year advanced to the 4-A Division quarterfinals, on both sides of the ball.

The Spartans were fundamentally sound as well, committing only three first-half penalties while building a 36-7 lead. It was a severe departure from recent Sylmar teams, which usually struggled with penalties, especially in early-season games.

“We were sharp, weren’t we?” Sylmar Coach Jeff Engilman said. “I’m very happy with the way we were able to run everything smoothly.”

Engilman knew going into the season he had an experienced offensive line and solid running game to create at least some offense. What the Spartans lacked was an experienced quarterback.

Engilman was prepared to use as many as three against Washington. He need worry no more.

Starter Joey LaPorte erased any doubt. Showing poise and patience in the pocket, the converted linebacker completed all 10 of his passes for 175 yards, including a 13-yard touchdown to Shaun Avalos on Sylmar’s first possession.

“I was a little nervous on the first play,” LaPorte said. “But after that, everything just worked.”

Sylmar’s running game-by-committee also operated smoothly.

Led by senior Errol Bowen with 70 yards in 11 carries, the Spartans gained 210 yards on the ground.

Senior Donald Carpenter gained 44 yards in eight carries and scored on runs of one and 27 yards.

The Spartans were just as impressive on defense, holding the Generals to 171 yards, 78 of which came on a late pass. Sylmar was rarely fooled by Washington’s multiple formations.

Washington quarterback Anthony West completed five of 14 passes for 140 yards and the Generals were held to 31 yards in 24 carries.

The only mistake by Sylmar came right after the first score. Wide receiver Donte Kelly beat Bowen badly and hauled in a 26-yard touchdown pass from Anthony West.

But the Spartans bounced right back, driving 75 yards in nine plays, Anthony Wells scoring on a 10-yard run. A two-point conversion by Carpenter gave Sylmar a 14-7 lead.

After a punt by the Generals, it was Bowen’s turn, rambling in from seven yards.

Avalos helped put the game away by intercepting a pass at the Washington 31 and taking it back for a score, aided by a key block by Carpenter.