Bishop Amat Threatens, but Servite Hangs On

Servite’s running game and ball control dominated the first half and the Friars held off host La Puente Bishop Amat, 17-14, in a nonleague game Friday night.

After pulling within three early in the fourth quarter, Bishop Amat (5-2) couldn’t capitalize on three possessions. Two incomplete passes and two sacks on the final series secured the victory for Servite (5-2).

“Our defensive staff did a great job,” Servite Coach Larry Toner said. “We executed better [than we have lately]. That’s how I like to go into [Serra] league play.”

After their first possession stalled after a long drive, the Friars scored on three of their next four possessions. Quarterback Adam Ernst found LeShawn George with a 26-yard touchdown pass for the first score, which capped a 54-yard, eight-play drive. Earlier in the drive, Servite faced fourth and five at midfield when Steve Ayers, back to punt, threw to Frank Magdaleno for a 26-yard pickup.

After forcing a Bishop Amat punt, the Friars drove 43 yards on their next possession before Steve Ayers kicked a 33-yard field goal. Early in the second quarter, Servite was forced to punt, but Lancer return man Jason Leach fumbled after calling for a fair catch, and Servite recovered. The Friars then drove 37 yards in eight plays, culminating in Magdaleno’s three-yard scoring run, which gave Servite a 17-7 halftime lead.

Momentum swung in the Lancers’ direction late in the third quarter as they began a 70-yard scoring drive. Donnie McCleskey went 45 yards for a touchdown to pull Bishop Amat within three, but the Lancers came no closer.