Loara, Ellis Hold Off Villa Park

Loara played a nearly flawless game in which it dominated the time of possession to record a 28-17 victory over Villa Park in a nonleague game Thursday at Glover Stadium.

The Saxons (3-1), who controlled the ball for nearly 32 minutes of the game, were led by quarterback Jeremy Ellis, who completed 15 of 21 passes for 179 yards, including touchdown plays that covered 13, 9 and 18 yards.

Loara began the game with an 11-play drive that covered five minutes 24 seconds and was capped with a one-yard touchdown run by Ellis.

After a forced punt, Ellis marched his team right back down the field, taking another 5:07 off the clock. This time however, the 12-play drive ended in a missed field goal.

The defense then forced a fumble and Ellis was at it again. Five plays later, the senior quarterback completed a 13-yard touchdown pass to tight end Joey Ellis. The pair later connected on a nine-yard touchdown play.

The Spartans (2-2) received a standout performance from running back Marquis Colvin. Colvin ran for 139 yards in 18 carries, including a two-yard touchdown run in the first half.

Bryan Arguello had three catches for 39 yards. Arguello caught a 29-yard touchdown pass with six seconds remaining in the first half to pull the Spartans within seven.

But in the second half, Loara gave the ball to running back Billy Chavez to seal the victory. Chavez rushed for 126 yards in 26 carries. Although he did not score, he kept the ball secure and kept the clock moving by alertly staying in bounds on several runs.