Monarchs Struggle in Season-Opening Loss Against Panthers

Sep 16, 20242 min read

Updated: Feb 24

Chaffey held Valley scoreless for three quarters, as the home team entered the final quarter with a 20 point lead.

By: JC Rosa, Staff writer

Valley Quarterback Gavin Goulette (4) is tackled by Chaffey football players. (Hui Wang for The Valley Star)

In the season opener on Saturday, Chaffey’s command of the first three quarters proved to be too much for the Monarchs to overcome, ultimately suffering a 23-13 defeat.

“To come out and not get the win, it’s tough,” said Head Coach Lester Towns. “I’ve got to be proud of them, they worked their butts off and they didn’t quit.”

Chaffey dominated the first half of play, torching Valley’s defense with 178 yards through the air and 89 yards rushing yards. Their execution in the first half netted them a touchdown through the air and on the ground. On the defensive end, Chaffey was able to stymie the Monarchs offense as Valley was only able to gain 30 yards on offense. Chaffey put constant pressure on Valley’s quarterbacks, totaling nine sacks between both of the Monarch’s quarterbacks, four of which came in the first half.

“Chaffey was bringing pressure to our offensive line, so our quarterbacks didn’t have time to stand in the pocket and throw the ball,” Coach Towns said when asked about the lack of offensive consistency. “What I’m not happy with is the quarterback taking a sack, they should be getting the ball out of their hands.”

The Monarchs struggled to make adjustments going into the third quarter, as Chaffey continued to control the game, scoring another touchdown, making the score 20-0 through three quarters.

Valley turned up the intensity late in the game, scoring both of their touchdowns in the fourth quarter. Starting quarterback Daryus Warren scored on a run-pass option, running 14 yards for the touchdown. Later, Gavin Goulette connected with receiver K’Shaun White for a 20-yard touchdown pass.

On the defensive end, Valley picked up the intensity in the fourth quarter, holding their opponent to just three points in the quarter.

“We picked it up, and I’m glad we did,” Warren said when asked about the offensive surge in the second half. “We gave it our all, but the results didn’t come our way.”

The Monarchs look to address their shortcomings going into their home opener against Compton at 6 p.m. on Saturday.

“We have to get better day by day,” said defensive back Jorge Hernandez. “We have to bring it to Compton.”