Newport Harbor Cruises in Victory Over Glendora

Even short-handed and operating on what Coach Jeff Brinkley considered less than all cylinders, Newport Harbor had way too much for host Glendora Friday night.

The Sailors (3-0-1) raced to a 21-0 halftime lead, then extended it to 28-0 before cruising to a 28-13 victory at Citrus College.

Playing without injured two-way starters Billy Clayton and Mike Tunney, as well as defensive end Garrett Troncale, Harbor overwhelmed the Tartans (2-2).

“Our backups stepped up, which is what you have to do,” said Brinkley, who became the all-time Newport-Mesa District victory leader with his 107th triumph at Newport Harbor. Brinkley, in his 14th season at Harbor, passed former Corona del Mar coach Dave Holland, who had 106 wins in 20 seasons.

Backup end Brad Rothwell sparkled in place of Troncale and outside linebacker Andy Rankin had an interception and blocked a punt spelling Tunney.

Travis Trimble, who usually shares time with Tunney at fullback, scored the Sailors’ first touchdown and Kelsey Peterson (safety) and Chad Smith (receiver) made sure the Sailors didn’t miss Clayton too badly.

“When you get your chance, that’s your time to shine,” Rothwell said. “You have to do your best for the team, so there won’t be a letdown.”