By Michael J.A. Nauta Jr.

Gridiron action in the Miller Football League continued Sunday afternoon with both the Island Eagles and Cars Plus Rams battling one another in their season opener. In a game that showcased excellent defense from both sides, only two touchdowns were scored before a winner was decided. When all was said and done and the final whistle was blown, it was the Eagles who celebrated a 14-0 victory.

From the start of the match both teams came out looking for their first score of the game. However, both defenses came with their A-game and denied the other a chance a getting into the end zone. The entire opening period eventually came to a close with the scoreboard reflecting “goose eggs”.

It wasn’t until late in the opening half when the offensive production began. With less than six minutes left in the second quarter, the Eagles turned to a mixture of run and pass sequences to get the chains moving. A big run by quarterback Corey Chin allowed the Eagles into Rams territory.

Eagles Stan Tesei, runs the play attempting to avoid the defensive player.(photo by Richard Camacho IV)

On the ensuing play, Chin would find an open Reggie Baylor for a 22-yard reception to set up a first and goal. Moments later, a two-yard plunge by John Paul Taijeron gave the Eagles a 6-0 lead. The PAT was converted to tack on an extra point.

Cars Plus valiantly put forth a strong effort to end their scoreless drought in the final minute of the half. However, a strong Eagle defense eventually forced a turnover to deny the opportunity. A pass attempt by Rams quarterback Leeray Zapatos would get picked off by Joe Terlaje before the half.

Second half action was much like the first with both teams still having a hard time punching in a score. Late in the third quarter, the Eagles were in great position to score only to be stopped after an interception by Jeremy Manglona. After several plays, the Rams were poised to equalize as they marched the ball downfield. Defense was key as Cars Plus was forced to punt.

In the fourth period, the Rams lost possession of the ball after a forced turnover. The Eagles took advantage and was able to convert for a touchdown after Chin located Baylor in the corner of the end zone for six. Another PAT conversion made it a 14-0 game. The final minutes of the game went unscathed as no other points were scored. When the final whistle was blown the Eagles raised their hand victorious and opens their season with a 1-0 record.

PHOTO GALLERY BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

Eagles Hank Sablan continues to push forward as he is being pulled by a Ram tackler. (photo by Richard Camacho IV)

Eagles Gavin West has the ball slip through his hands in a valiant attempt. (photo by Richard Camacho IV)

Rams Pumpy Manglona attempts to push through the Eagles defensive line. (photo by Richard Camacho IV)

Eagles Frank Fernandez runs the ball while swarmed by the Rams defensive tackle. (photo by Richard Camacho IV)

Rams Pumpy Manglona struggles to break free from the Eagles defense. (photo by Richard Camacho IV)