Blackledge Powers Buena to Victory

Running back D.J. Blackledge’s third touchdown run early in the third quarter led Buena High past San Marcos, 31-20, in a Channel League game Friday night at Ventura High.

Blackledge’s three-yard score capped an 11-play, 81-yard drive on the Bulldogs’ opening possession of the second half, breaking a 14-14 tie.

Blackledge also scored on runs of four and six yards, finishing with 103 yards in 21 carries.

A 32-yard field goal by Steven Howard gave Buena (6-1, 1-0 in league play) a 24-14 lead with 20 seconds left in the third quarter.

Buena, the two-time defending Channel League champion, put the game out of reach early in the fourth quarter when defensive back Jason Kapu scored on a 32-yard interception return. Kapu had another interception in the final minutes.

Linebacker Paul Johnsonbaugh had two fumble recoveries for the Bulldogs. Kyle Loughman completed 10 of 17 passes for 140 yards.

San Marcos (3-4, 0-2) was led by Carlos Santano, who had 79 yards in 15 carries, including a 17-yard touchdown.

Freddie Keiaho rushed for 72 yards and caught four passes for 53 yards for Buena.