Marina Shuts Down Valencia in a 49-6 Defensive Masterclass (2024)

Placentia – Bradford Stadium

Marina’s defense dominated once again, leading to a 49-6 victory over Valencia as the Vikings improved to 7-0 for the first time in school history. The Vikings’ defense delivered key plays throughout, including a pick-six, a blocked punt inside the 5-yard line, and a sack that led to a fumble recovery, shutting down Valencia’s Wing-T offense.

Senior wide receiver and defensive back Shane Cassidy had a standout performance with two touchdown receptions and an interception returned for another score. Senior running back Gabe Carles rushed for over 100 yards and scored twice. By the second quarter, Marina was up 28-0, with Cassidy scoring twice and returning an interception for a touchdown. Senior quarterback Garrett Hunnicutt also added a 23-yard touchdown run, and the game clock ran continuously in the second half due to the Vikings’ overwhelming lead.

“We’ve done things right for seven weeks in a row,” said Marina coach Charlie TeGantvoort. “Now we’ve just got to focus and do them right for one more week and then a couple more after that. And then maybe a few more after that.”

Junior linebacker Gunnar Mickelson, who recovered a fumble and blocked a punt, echoed the growing confidence, “I think we can go all the way.”

The Vikings’ defense completely stifled Valencia, holding them to minus-7 rushing yards through the first three quarters. Marina’s scout team was critical in preparing the defense to face Valencia’s tricky Wing-T offense, showing the team’s depth and commitment.

Despite the lopsided game, Valencia managed to break the shutout on the game’s final play with a 79-yard drive, resulting in a touchdown by Junior running back Louis Galvan.

Cassidy summed up the day, “We dominated through the game, didn’t let off at halftime, and it was a day we could get everybody on the field. It was a good day.”