Marina Remains Undefeated with a 21-7 Win Over Esperanza

Huntington Beach – Marina High School Football Field

The Marina Vikings improved to 5-0 with a hard-fought 21-7 win over Esperanza on Friday night, heading into their bye week undefeated. Senior quarterback Garret Hunnicutt led the way with two touchdown passes to Senior wide receiver and defensive back Shane Cassidy and added a rushing touchdown to secure the victory.

“It took us a while to find our footing and once we did, I couldn’t be more happy of how the guys finished,” said head coach Jeff TeGantvoort.

The Vikings’ defense and special teams were key, forcing four turnovers and delivering a pivotal blocked field goal when Esperanza threatened to take the lead. The Aztecs’ 22-yard field goal attempt was blocked, keeping the score tied at 7-7.

“Good penetration by their front that threw off the visual for our kicker,” Esperanza Coach JP Presley said.

Following the block, Marina drove 80 yards, leading to Hunnicutt’s 17-yard touchdown pass to Cassidy. On Esperanza’s next possession, a punt mistake set up Hunnicutt’s 6-yard rushing score, putting the game out of reach.

“Our defense and special teams carried us,” TeGantvoort added. “And it was Senior Night, so what a great way to honor our seniors.”

Now, Marina will enjoy a week off before facing Sunny Hills in a Lambda league rematch, a game TeGantvoort is eager for after last season’s loss. “We all remember that, it’s a bitter taste, so we can’t wait to get the extra week to focus and get ready for league.”