The Central Spartans took the 20-minute trek to Calexico to take on the Bulldogs Friday, October, 1st to open up the Imperial Valley League slate of games for both teams at Ward Field. From the opening drive on, the Spartans did not let up, with the final score being Central – 42, Calexico – 6.
For the Spartans, junior quarterback Damian Rodriguez had a strong passing game, throwing for over 330 yards and six touchdowns. Junior wide receiver Gavin Marini was credited with Central’s first score of the game, catching a six-yard touchdown pass to make the score 6-0 and another touchdown reception late in the game, this time for 54 yards. Freshman wide receiver Sergio Garcia had two touchdowns to his own name, one a 77-yard reception and the other a 12-yard reception. Sophomore wide receiver Artie Estrada also had two scores in his own name, one a 31-yard touchdown reception and the other a 43-yard touchdown pass to make the Spartan lead 42-0. Junior Skylar Cook had a interception to his name, catching a Abram Zazueta throw at the 1-yard-line.
For the Bulldogs, junior defensive back Andres Ramirez, was able to snag an interception and return it to the Calexico 47-yard-line. With under 5 minutes to play in the game, the Bulldogs scored on a 2-yard touchdown run by senior quarterback Abram Zazueta which would make the final score Spartans – 42, Calexico – 6.
This victory will put the Spartans back into the win column again, improving their record to 2-4, after being defeated in their last three games against tough competition in Palm Desert, Vista, and Christian. Central will have a tough test this week when the Del Valle Conquistadores of El Paso, Texas visit Cal Jones Field Friday night at 6pm. The two teams last played in the 2019 season in El Paso, with the Spartans coming away with the victory 34-21.
With the loss, Calexico evens up their record at 3-3 on the season. The Bulldogs also suffered losses to tough teams in Palo Verde (6-15) and Holtville (28-29). Calexico will continue their Imperial Valley League slate of game when they take the short trek to El Centro to take on the Southwest Eagles Friday night at 7pm.
Watch our broadcast highlights from Central’s big win over Calexico.
