Verdugo, Bearcats too much for Saints, Bonita Retains Smudge Cup 23-14

GLENDORA – Angel Verdugo ran for three touchdowns as the Bonita Bearcats retained the Smudge Pot in a 23-14 victory over San Dimas Thursday night at Citrus College.

Verdugo finished with 165 yards, while quarterback Cody Brazzill added another 159 yards for Bonita who improved to 4-1.

The annual rivalry matchup is usually the first game played between the two teams. This year, however it was scheduled in the middle of the season.

“It’s a big deal, but we treat it as any other game,” Verdugo said. “We just came out here and played our game. We listened to our coaches and came out with a big win.”

Bobby Rios rushed for 79 yards and a touchdown for the Saints, who fall to 3-2.

Verdugo broke a scoreless deadlock with less than a minute to go with an 18 yard run.

The Saints however would score on the next possession, culminating with a 61-yard run by Manny Elizalde to tie the game at 7-7.

Rios scored on a 45-yard run with 9 minutes to go in the third quarter to tie the game at 14-14.

However, Verdugo was not done, as he would once again score the go-ahead touchdown with three minutes to go in the third to reclaim the lead at 20-14.

Garrett Deane added a 24-yard field goal with less than a minute to go to put the game away.

“We worked hard the whole week,” Verdugo said. “We know they are a real great team and wouldn’t give up easily. Our line stepped up and we just kept pounding the (ball)”

Bonita opens league play next Friday as they host Glendora (3-1) at Charter Oak High school.

SCORING

1st –BONITA – Angel Verdugo 18 yard run (Garrett Deane Kick) (:30)

2nd – SAN DIMAS – Manny Elizalde 61 run (Al Franco Kick) (11:00)

BONITA – Verdugo 4 yard run (Deane Kick) (5:00)

3rd – SAN DIMAS – Bobby Rios 45 yard run (Eric Ware Kick) (9:00)

BONITA – Verdugo 5 yard run (Kick Failed)

4th - BONITA – Deane 24 yard Field Goal (:55)