By Vincent PAGE

For the first time in Crescenta Valley High School history, the varsity football team opened its season in Orlando, Florida. The players faced Barron Collier High School at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex last Thursday for a week zero game.

Traveling didn’t faze the Falcons; they won by a score of 34-31.

The first quarter was even, with both teams scoring twice. But a 14-point second quarter for the Falcons thrust them out to a 28-14 halftime lead, thanks to a stellar defense.

Going into the third, CV’s defense continued its battle; the only scoring in the third quarter came from a Barron Collier field goal. The 28-17 lead was apparently a little too close for comfort for the Falcons, though. They added six points in the final quarter of play.

Barron Collier wasn’t ready to give in, however; they scored two more touchdowns late in the game. But in the end, the Falcons were able to pull out the victory to get their season off to a strong start.

Junior quarterback Cole Doyle, who is entering his third season as the starting quarterback, had a solid game. While he did throw two interceptions, he also threw for 153 yards and two touchdowns.

The Falcons’ backfield is going to be exciting this year, as Doyle will be paired with senior running back Joe Suh. While Doyle played well in the opener, Suh was the Falcons MVP. He rushed for 213 yards and three scores in the game. He was vital to the victory as he ran out the clock in the fourth quarter to kill the Barron Collier comeback. While humidity seemed to slow down the rest of the Falcons, Suh prospered late in the game.

The Falcons will next take on Golden Valley High School for their home opener. Both teams sit at 1-0, and look to continue their strong starts to the season on Friday, Sept. 8 at 7 p.m. at Moyse Field.

  RICK DINGER, Vincent PAGE