Disappointment clouded over the Glendale Vaqueros on Saturday when they faced the Pirates at Orange Coast College.

The Vaqueros’ record fell to 3-1 after the Pirates scored a touchdown at the beginning of the fourth quarter and held on for a 10-6 victory.

The Vaqs’ offense couldn’t convert on downs and was unsuccessful with the running game and their defense couldn’t contain the Pirates’ offense and allowed over 200 offensive yards.

Even with the Pirates committing 13 penalties for 120 yards, the Vaqs still couldn’t progress. With 65 rushing yards and 132 passing yards, the Vaqs only put up six points on the scoreboard.

Slideshow Media Credit: Richard Kontas

The game went back and forth between both teams resulting in nine punts by Garret Hernandez for a total of 323 yards.

With 9:54 remaining in the second quarter, the Vaqs were facing fourth down and 20 yards to go. The offense decided to go for it. Quarterback Stephen Miller connected on a 26-yard pass with receiver Brian Williams, resulting in a Glendale touchdown. The extra point was unsuccessful.

The Vaqs were leading at the end of the first half, 6-3.

In the third quarter, neither team scored. With 36 seconds remaining in the quarter, defensive lineman Nate Mestizo rushed the Pirates’ quarterback, resulting in a 12-yard interception return by Kalii Robinson. The Vaqs obtained possession at their own 29-yard line. The drive ended in a 38-yard punt by Hernandez.

The fourth quarter took the Vaqs by surprise. The Pirates took possession at their own 10-yard line after a personal foul. Four plays and 90 yards later, the Pirates had a one-yard rushing touchdown, putting the Pirates up for good.

With 11:29 left in the fourth quarter, the Vaqs couldn’t progress down the field, convert downs, or complete passes. Miller threw two interceptions and the offense ended with negative yardage. The Vaqs’ final drive ended with an interception.

Rene Howard led the Vaqs’ defense with eight tackles. Danny Valdez had five tackles for a loss of 11 yards, and Jesse Halberstadt had two sacks, which also resulted in a loss of 11 yards.

For the Vaqs’ offense, Willie Youngblood carried the ball 11 times for 30 yards total. Brian Williams caught three passes for 57 yards and the Vaqs’ only touchdown. Eudell Clayton had five receptions for 41 yards. Dylan Ryan had two catches
for 23 yards.

The Vaqueros will begin Western State Conference play Saturday at 6 p.m. when they go on the road to face the Ventura College Pirates (3-1).