The Central Coast Barnstormers defeated the SOCA Sharks 34-0
Saturday at Gilroy High, clinching the division championship.
The Central Coast Barnstormers defeated the SOCA Sharks 34-0 Saturday at Gilroy High, clinching the division championship.
Tyrone Ward set the tempo for the game with a punt return for a touchdown in the first quarter.
Running back Derek “D-Train” Morrison once again rose to the challenge, rushing for over 130 yards. Sixty of those yards came in the second play from scrimmage in the second half, melting any hopes the Sharks may have had for a comeback.
Another player who had a breakout performance was wide receiver Dante Anderson, who sprinted underneath a pass which initially appeared to be overthrown for a 60-yard touchdown reception.
Perhaps the most impressive performance was by the Barnstormer defense, who pitched another shutout. Defensive end Ben Murdach led the effort with three sacks.
The Barnstormers also accumulated three interceptions in the second half, never allowing the Sharks offense to get on track. One noteworthy pick was by Ward, who has already racked up eight interceptions this season.
“We have even more confidence heading into this year’s postseason than ever,” defensive tackle Issac Hernandez said. “We are playing solid on offense, defense and really getting it done on special teams.”
The Barnstormers will enjoy a bye week, followed by the NCAFF playoff opener June 2. The NCAFF semifinals will be June 9.
