Newport Harbor Falls to La Habra in Non-Conference Game (2024)

La Habra – La Habra Stadium

Newport Harbor (0-2) experienced a tough 31-7 loss to La Habra on Friday night, struggling to find momentum after a promising start. The Sailors tied the game 7-7 in the second quarter, but couldn’t maintain their offensive rhythm as La Habra’s defense dialed in.

Senior running back Tony Glynn led Newport Harbor to a solid drive in the second quarter, ending with his 8-yard touchdown run to even the score. Earlier, the Sailors had marched down the field on their opening possession, reaching La Habra’s 15-yard line, but were stopped short after two consecutive incompletions on third and fourth down.

After tying the game, Newport Harbor looked prepared to challenge La Habra’s defense, but a second-quarter interception killed their momentum. Facing second-and-7 from the La Habra 35, an interception by Senior defensive end Ulavai Fetuli gave the Highlanders control of the game. La Habra capitalized, taking a 14-7 lead just before halftime.

The Sailors struggled to regain control in the second half as La Habra’s defense continued to tighten. Newport Harbor’s offense was shut down for the remainder of the game, and two critical interceptions by La Habra’s Junior defensive back Bobby Brooks in the second half eliminated any hopes of a comeback.

“They’re a good football team,” La Habra coach Frank Mazzotta said, talking about the Sailors. “Their quarterback is really good, so we were concerned about them throwing the ball. But again, I think our offensive line and defensive line kids are kind of our backbone right now. So, we’re going to get better”

Even with the loss, Newport Harbor showed flashes of potential in their early drives, but were ultimately overpowered by La Habra’s strong defensive and offensive execution. The Sailors will look to regroup and bounce back in their next matchup as they search for their first win of the season.