Extra points are overrated

The Cougars didn't need extra points, or two point conversions for that matter, as they snuck by Hayward High 12-8 on Saturday, Sept. 13 in front of a hometown crowd.

They might have though, if it wasn't for the fact that their defense, penalties and tired legs slowed the big play potential of star halfback Dominique Jackson who doubled as an outside linebacker for the entire game.

Coach Morris said after the game that this game justified all the extra wind sprints because the Cougars were in better shape than their Hayward counterparts who huffed and puffed much of the second half.

The Hayward Band was something special though. After a shaky national anthem, the full band including a big brass tuba made every break in the action fun for the fans.

Strength in numbers: After breaking off an early 17-yard run, sturdy fullback Niuatoa Eleasaro was continually gang-tackled on most of his next 10 carries as the Cougars decided that strength in numbers was the way to bring down the big fella'. Eleasaro finished with 55 yards on the ground.

Linebacker on the loose: Robert McKissock drilled the Hayward quarterback Mike Fragaso twice before he was ejected midway through the second quarter. On the first, McKissock forced a fumble. The second hit from the 230-pound McKissock on the 155-pound Fragaso was so violent, the crowd let out a collective *ouch*. More later on the SCCAL's ruling on the personal foul that got McKissock ejected.

Punt this: The Cougars punting game looked good as Alex Luera boomed a number of kicks and the coverage team easily made it down the field in time to make the quick tackle on the speedy Hayward punt returners. Both teams let too many balls bounce on the turf and one SLV punt even drilled one of the officials (drawing a boo from the home team crowd) who apparently didn't see it coming.

Play of the Day: It's actually back to back plays. On a second down and nine, linebacker Bryce Harbert played perfect outside position, riding a blocker on a sweep to Jackson and exploded up to make the tackle for no gain on the elusive back. On the following play, Harbert came flying in on a play action pass and dropped the quarterback for a 9-yard loss igniting the Cougar sideline early in the third quarter.

Photos: Lucjan Szewczyk/Press-Banner