Segerstrom’s Nick Cervantes catches the ball as Palm Springs’ Tatum Webster defends Friday night. (Photos courtesy of Mark Bausman)
The Segerstrom High School football team opened the season at home on Friday night with a 37-0 non-league victory over Palm Springs.
The Jaguars (1-0) quickly made an impact on defense, recovering a fumble on the first play of the game. The defense forced three turnovers on its first four defensive series. The Jaguars finished the game with five forced turnovers, three fumbles and two interceptions.
“I think everyone played a great job tonight,” Segerstrom coach Joseph Tagaloa said. “Defensively, we were able to get the ball. We kept trying to force turnovers and were fortunate to get a couple of fumbles and interceptions.”
To view the slideshow, click on the first photo:
The Segerstrom Jaguars take the field for Friday’s game.
Segerstrom’s Gilbert Peralta puts pressure on quarterback Bishop Miller.
Segerstrom’s No. 27 Andrew Romero and Jullian Hernandez take the ball from Palm Springs QB Bishop Miller.
Segerstrom’s Cristian Ramos scores a touchdown in the end zone as Palm Springs’ Lee Damonte defends.
Segerstrom quarterback Jesse Lopez fights for yardage.
A pass intended for Noah Tagaloa from Segerstrom is intercepted by Koa Rapoa from Palm Springs.
Segerstrom’s Nick Cervantes evades Palm Springs defenseman Tatum Webster.
Segerstrom coach Joseph Tagaloa is starting the game with Gabriel Vergara.
Nick Cervantes of Segerstrom intercepts the ball.
Noah Whitacre picks up yards for Palm Springs.
Segerstrom’s Nick Cervantes evades Palm Springs defenseman Matthew Givens.
Mario Lopez and Joseph Garcia of Segerstrom take down Damonte Lee of Palm Springs.
Segerstrom’s Ayden Morales finds a gap and gains space.
Christian Ramos, a transfer from Santa Ana High School, finished the game with four catches for 79 yards. Ramos had a 14-yard touchdown pass and another for 9 yards.
Nick Cervantes was the Jaguars’ leading receiver, totaling 104 yards on three catches and a 39-yard run. Cervantes also caught an 18-yard touchdown pass in the third quarter.
“I love setting the tone, overall it was just a good win for the team,” Cervantes said. “We set the tone for the season and showed everyone who we are and who we can be.”
Jaguars quarterback Jesse Lopez completed six passes for 139 yards and threw two touchdowns. Noah Tagaloa was the leading runner with 64 yards on 11 carries.
Jordan Johnson was the leading runner for Palm Springs (0-1) with 39 yards on 15 carries. Alijah Stangl was the leading receiver with 33 yards on one catch.
“I’m excited. I didn’t know what to expect. As you know, the first game is always a question of ‘what if’,” Tagaloa said. “Our biggest concern is to grow. We have to keep improving. We can’t sit back, look at the win and say we did it. We have to keep working, keep improving and play consistent football.”
Segerstrom will face Santa Ana Valley at home next Friday.
