GARCES DELIVERS STOUT DEFENSE IN 20-0 SHUTOUT OVER THE INDIANS

TEHACHAPI NEWS - Tehachapi (3-2) did have opportunities to reach then endzone in the first half of last week’s match-up with Garces (4-0), but the Ramblers proved to be stout in the clutch in their 20-0 win over the Indians.

The Ramblers received their first score in the game on their first series, completing a 78-yard drive at the 5:48 mark of the first quarter. After the PAT, Garces led 7-0.

The Tehachapi defense would stifle the Rambler attack for most of the rest of the contest, giving into only relinquishing only 89 more yards of offense before Garces added a punt-return score and an offensive score late in the fourth quarter.

Subbing in for injured Quarterback Ehren Ochsenrider, Steven Miller completed two passes in the game for 35 yards, both to runningback Paul Castro.

Castro would also lead the Indians’ in carries and yardage, rushing for 95 yards on 15 carries. Byron Hermon would spell Castro at times in the ground game, contributing with 38 yards on eight carries.

Tehachapi did force three turnovers and a turnover-on-downs in the contest, giving them field position deep in Garces territory or near midfield, but the Indians could not cash in their 137 total yards into points through the stingy Rambler line. 

The Indians did receive solid play on the defensive side of the ball, with Joey Montez and Hermon co-leading the team in tackles with five, while Jake Taylor and Castro contributed with four tackles apiece. Eric Jones chipped in with an interception in the contest while Josh Schulgen and Montez recovered fumbles. Gabe Noboa, David Draughn and Anthony Calvillo each had three tackles in the game.

The Indians will begin their south sequoia league schedule this week against Wasco at home. The Cubs come into the contest sporting a 3-1 record, with a 36-6 win over McFarland last week. The Cubs’ only loss on the year was to Garces, 13-0.

The Indians held the Rambler Offense to only 59 yards in the second half, but the Rams took advantage of opportunities in all four quarters to get the shutout win.