MURRIETA – Murrieta Valley’s football team clinched their third consecutive victory last Friday night with a win over the San Clemente Tritons, finalizing the score at 35-25 in front of an enthusiastic homecoming crowd.
The Nighthawks showcased their dominance early on, maintaining a lead through a blend of offensive and defensive strength. Dorian Hoze was a standout performer, rushing for an impressive 222 yards and scoring two touchdowns on 32 carries. His consistent yardage was crucial in maintaining the team’s momentum.
However, it was the special teams that truly made a difference. With San Clemente threatening to close the gap after Hoze’s initial touchdown, Murrieta Valley’s Gio Monge blocked a point-after attempt to keep their lead intact. This defensive play set the tone for the rest of the game.
One of the night’s most electrifying moments came from Cam Connor, who, with only seconds left in the first half, returned a 52-yard punt from the five-yard line, weaving through Triton defenders to score. This marked his fourth return touchdown of the season, further highlighting his impact on the field.
The second half continued with Murrieta Valley’s special teams shining brightly. After another Hoze touchdown extended their lead, Kurelle Thomas took the ensuing kickoff and dashed 84 yards to score, reestablishing the Nighthawks’ two-score lead.
San Clemente attempted a comeback with quarterback Jack Ferguson connecting with Max Kotiranta, but the relentless pressure from Murrieta Valley’s defenders, including a crucial sack on a conversion attempt, kept the Tritons at bay.
The victory improved Murrieta Valley’s record to 4-1, while San Clemente dropped to an even 3-3. Their recent triumph cements Murrieta Valley’s position as a top contender, having won three straight meetings against San Clemente.
Looking ahead, the Nighthawks will host Norco on Thursday evening, where their formidable defense will aim to maintain their impressive average of only 17.4 points allowed per game.
