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BRAVES CLOSE OUT YEAR WITH WIN, 37-6
TEHACHAPI NEWS - Adam Mullen laid down the hammer for Tehachapi (8-2; 4-1 SSL) as he has done all season long, torching the Eagle defense for 230 yards rushing on eight carries and finishing with 358 all-purpose yards.
On the Braves’ first play from scrimmage, Mullen took a handoff 61-yards for a touchdown to put Tehachapi up 6-0.
After forcing an Eagle punt in the second quarter, Mullen took a return at Tehachapi’s own 20-yard line, reversed his field, and raced to the endzone to record the Braves second touchdown of the game on an 80-yard run. During Mullen’s rumble, the talented sophomore back initiated a stiff-arm that pancaked an Eagle player near the Bakersfield Christian 30-yard line, bringing the crowd in attendance to cheers and jeers.
“Mullen just dominated the game,” said head coach Ryan Grimes. “Every game they have keyed on him but they still can’t stop him. He’s a special talent.”
For the year, Mullen finished with 1,608 rushing yards and 31 touchdowns (including special teams scores).
Tehachapi also received some other notable performances from Armando Salcido, who finished with nine carries for 83 yards, Damien Rodriguez with four attempts for 34 yards, and Angelo Loli with 35 yards on seven carries. Loli had two of Tehachapi’s touchdowns on the evening while Rodriguez also chipped in with one score. Dougan Patience had an extra point for the Braves on the first Loli touchdown.
On defense, Eric Harroun had nine tackles and a blocked punt, Jason Hail had eight tackles, Chris Fimbres had seven tackles and a sack, and Kevin Ruiz had two tackles and two sacks. Dominic Chavarria finished with five tackles, Dan Rakowski four tackles, Rodriguez and Steven Brass three tackles, and Justin Hansen had an interception.
“We had five players move up to varsity to start the year so we’re very happy with the way this team came together and the players that stepped up their game to fill the gaps,” Grimes added. “They played very well and finished the season strong.”
Tehachapi has extended invitations to Adam Mullen, Justin Hansen, Kevin Ruiz, Vincent Ortiz, and Jason Hail to join the Warriors for the playoffs.
