Down three key linemen, one the place kicker and punter, before the opening kickoff, the Sonoma Valley High School varsity football boys were already facing a difficult challenge when it became more daunting by losing two top playmakers in Friday night’s nonleague clash with Fremont of Oakland at Arnold Field.
Confronted by fast, quick-striking Fremont, the Dragons first lost all-league senior wide receiver and defensive back Kyle Dunevent to a concussion, then all-league senior receiver, runner and defensive back Tristan Mertens went down with a rib injury, and the team fell out of sync and could never catch their rhythm.
While Sonoma was bogged down with penalties and turnovers, the visiting Tigers used two quick-strike touchdowns, including a 50-yard run and a 46-yard pass-play, for a 14-0 halftime lead.
With the depleted Dragons’ misfortunes continuing in the second half, Fremont tacked on another long touchdown pass play, this one for 60 yards, and left the Valley with a 20-0 win.
The Dragons host longtime rival Petaluma in their Sonoma County League opener at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 26, at Arnold Field.
Dragons of the Week
The Dragons of the Week in Friday’s 20-0 nonleague loss to Fremont of Oakland are Andre Alcantar and Nick Fantozzi.
Alcantar, a 6-foot, 1-inch, 205-pound senior defensive and tight end, turned in a strong effort applying pressure and making tackles on defense, and blocking on offense.
Fantozzi, a 6-foot, 185-pound senior offensive and defensive lineman, was a standout on both sides of the ball.
The Dragons of the Week are sponsored by Eraldi’s Men’s Wear and Shoes, and Broadway Market.
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