Moors Reach 2011 Playoffs with Aspirations of CIF Championship

TINA CHEN
Staff Writer

After winning against Montebello on Oct. 28 with a score of 7-6, the varsity football team was guaranteed to play at the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) playoffs. Although previously ranked first in Almont League, they played their last two games of
the season against San Gabriel and Bell Gardens which placed them second in league.
“Although we can play at playoffs, weʼll still do our best because the league title is on the line,” running back Ezra Broadus said.
On Nov. 5, however, Alhambra lost 14-69 to San Gabriel, making it their second loss this season.
The defeat risked their chances to qualify for playoffs as they were tied with Schurr.
“The loss was like a wake up call for all of us to play harder,” quarterback Josh Mendoza said.
Luckily, at their recent game against Bell Gardens, Alhambra won 27-24. During the first quarter, they scored 20 points which gave them the lead. By the fourth quarter, Alhambra scored another touchdown which gave them another 7 points, resulting in a 3 point victory. This win secured their spot for the CIF playoffs. They are scheduled to match up against La Puente.
“Weʼre excited to play against La Puente, but we must practice hard and not make mistakes during the game,” Captain Jonathan Bird said.
La Puente currently stands third in the Mid-Valley Division with an overall record of 9-1 while Alhambra is 5th with a record of 8-2. The Moors believe that in order to win against this solid team, they must be physically and mentally prepared for the game before getting onto the field.