Bishop Diego football collected its first win of the season on Friday night, jumping out to an 18-0 halftime lead at Grace Brethren and holding on for a 33-24 victory. The Cardinals defense was able to force five turnovers, including an interception by Emilio Ruggiero that he returned 70 yards for a touchdown in the second half.
Senior quarterback Anthony Martinez was responsible for two first-quarter touchdowns for the Cardinals. He connected with Desmond Vanderfin on their first possession and then broke off a 45-yard scamper into the end zone on Bishop’s second.
Two weeks ago, the Cardinals (1-4) took a 13-0 lead into halftime and ultimately lost 14-13 to Santa Paula. They didn’t let that happen this time.
Freshman Paul Garcia found paydirt on a 30-yard run, and it was Ruggiero’s pick-6 that put the game out of reach.
“I think they took us a little light,” said defensive coordinator Ralph Molina about the first half. He said the Cardinals really had to fight in the second half to keep their lead.
“Defensively we made the play when we needed to,” explained Molina.
“A lot of people have written us off but it goes to show, don’t count us out!”
Bishop Diego hosts Oaks Christian next Friday at La Playa Stadium.
