Edison Defeats Los Alamitos 21-10, Ending Four-Year Losing Streak (2024)

Huntington Beach – ‘Cap’ Sheue Field

Edison secured a hard-fought 21-10 victory over Los Alamitos in their Alpha League opener Friday night, ending a four-year losing streak against the Griffins. Playing at Huntington Beach High School, the Chargers’ defense took over after an early Los Alamitos touchdown, holding their opponents scoreless for the remainder of the game. 

The Griffins struck first with an 80-yard run by Lenny Ibarra on their opening drive, but the Chargers’ defense adjusted quickly, forcing punts and turnovers throughout the game.

Offensively, Edison leaned on running back Julius Gillick, who racked up 219 yards and a touchdown on 24 carries. His consistent ground game kept the Griffins off balance, allowing sophomore quarterback Sam Thomson to shine in the second half. 

Thomson entered the game in the third quarter after starter Savelio Niumata left with an injury and delivered a key 28-yard touchdown pass to Ayden Degiacomo late in the fourth quarter, putting the game out of reach.

The Chargers’ defense played a crucial role in sealing the victory. Matt Lopez, who registered two sacks, made a pivotal stop inside the red zone in the final minutes, and Maddox Thomas followed up with a game-clinching interception. “Knowing this quarterback, he likes to scramble out,” Lopez said regarding his defensive play. “So, I found a gap, took my shot, and boom, made a play.”

With the win, Edison improved to 6-2 overall and 1-0 in the Alpha League, positioning themselves for a potential playoff run in one of Orange County’s most competitive leagues. Los Alamitos, now 4-4, will need to regroup quickly as they prepare for a tough matchup against San Clemente next week, while Edison faces the number nine team in the nation, Mission Viejo.