Silver Valley loses Pick game to Lucerne Valley

LUCERNE VALLEY • It’s been three years since the Lucerne Valley football team has held the Miner’s Pick.

On Friday night at Ron Peavy Field, the Mustangs got the Pick back with a 14-0 win over Silver Valley.

The first half was scoreless as the Trojans (0-8, 0-3 Desert Mountain League) outgained Lucerne Valley in total offense 100-46. Silver Valley ended up outgaining Lucerne Valley 265-207 in the game, but turnovers were the difference.

The third of four Trojans turnovers proved costly 4 minutes into the third quarter. Quarterback Bryant Glenn dropped back to throw a screen pass and was overwhelmed by four Mustangs pass rushers. The ball was picked off in midair by Bryce Beavers, who hustled 35 yards for a defensive touchdown.

Following a Silver Valley fumble in the fourth quarter, Lucerne Valley (3-5, 1-2 DML) went 29 yards in four plays to extend its lead as Josh Cruz scored on a 3-yard run. Cruz then caught the two-point conversion pass from Alondre Logan.

Disaster struck Silver Valley as an apparent 45-yard touchdown pass was called back by a chop block penalty.
When asked if he had any thoughts or comments about the game, Silver Valley head coach Freezy Smalls said, “None.”

“I’m almost speechless,” Lucerne Valley head coach Chris Klinger said. “We prepared so hard this week and we were so fired up and ready. I’m so proud of them for hanging in there, fighting hard and getting that win.”

The Trojans’ John Aquino led all rushers with 89 yards on 14 carries. The Mustangs’ Ruben Navarro had 68 yards on 14 carries.

Logan completed 4 of 7 passes for 60 yards. Cruz caught all four passes for Lucerne Valley.
Glenn was 6-for-11 for 61 yards.

Silver Valley     0    0    0    0    —    0
Lucerne Valley    0    0    6    8    —    14

Third Quarter
L — Beavers 35 interception return (kick failed)
Fourth Quarter
L — Cruz 3 run (Cruz pass from Logan)