Independence had to kick off their season on the road on Friday, but they showed no ill effects. Everything went their way against the Pioneer Valley Panthers as the Independence Falcons made off with a 35-14 win. The victory was some much needed relief for the Falcons as it spelled an end to their three-game losing streak dating back to last season.
Independence's success was the result of a balanced attack that saw several players step up, but Gunter Golla Iii led the charge by rushing for 38 yards and a touchdown, while also throwing for 162 yards and a touchdown while completing 75% of his passes. Angel Corona also deserves a mention for his punt return touchdown.
Perhaps unsurprisingly given the score, Independence was unstoppable on the ground and finished the game with 227 rushing yards. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Pioneer Valley only rushed for 101.
Pioneer Valley lost despite a true team effort on the offense, the best among them being Pepe Gonzalez, who rushed for 33 yards and a touchdown, and also threw for 72 yards and a touchdown while completing 100% of his passes. Jayden Ramos was another key player, picking up 118 receiving yards and a touchdown.
Independence will venture away from home to square off against South at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. As for Pioneer Valley, they will welcome Gilroy at 7:30 p.m. on Friday. Pioneer Valley is looking for their season?s first win.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps
