Much-improved Rams Beat Hartnell 28-20
Salinas – That team with the white jerseys Saturday night couldn’t have been the Gavilan Rams.
After all, Gavilan had failed to score more than 14 points in any game all season while struggling offensively, particularly in the passing game. The depleted Rams were missing injured Justin Sweeney and down to just 36 healthy bodies prior to kickoff against Hartnell.
And this team in the white jerseys had rung up a 21-0 halftime advantage and had amassed 195 yards in total offense with all three touchdowns through the air.
It was Gavilan, following offensive coordinator Andy Gonzalez’s game plan to perfection behind the pinpoint passing of Will Kilday. While the Rams struggled down the stretch, they were able to protect their lead and emerge with a 28-20 victory and their first win of the season.
“We opened up everything in practice and used it in the game,” said Kilday. “We had good play calling and were able to execute the plan.”
The first half was the best Gavilan had played all season. The Rams (1-4) marched 80 yards in 10 plays with Kilday connecting to Ellis Krout for a 9-yard scoring toss with 8:20 left in the first quarter.
Live Oak product Jeff Abbott made it 14-0 when he hauled in a 36-yard touchdown reception on Gavilan’s ensuing possession. Abbott finished with three catches for 46 yards.
