Western’s Defense Stops Magnolia

ANAHEIM — With memories of last week’s loss to Brea Olinda in the back of their minds, Western’s defense refused to make the same mistakes Thursday night against Magnolia, holding off a late surge to clinch a 27-20 Orange League victory at Western High.

With the victory, Western (4-5, 2-2) moves into a tie for third place with Magnolia (6-2-1, 2-2).

“It was shades of last week’s game,” Western Coach Toby Howell said. “Our defense stepped up. We bent, but we didn’t break this time.”

In almost the same scenario as last week, Western’s defense found itself backed into its territory, with a seven-point lead and just over a minute left in the game. Magnolia had the ball, first and 10 on Western’s 29.

In last week’s loss to the Wildcats, the Pioneers gave up a last-minute touchdown in a 17-14 loss.

Thursday, two big plays saved the victory.

Sophomore defensive back Will Ruffin came up big on the final drive, breaking up two Anthony Zaragoza passes, including a fourth-and-four pass that sealed Western’s victory.

Junior running back Trevell Jackson pounded away at Magnolia’s defense, carrying the ball 32 times, for 160 yards and three touchdowns.

“We count on [Jackson] when the going gets tough,” Howell said. “He is definitely our go-to guy.”

Jackson, who has 19 touchdowns this season, scored on runs of three, 16 and five yards. His final score of the game gave Western the lead for good, capping a nine-play, 56-yard drive with 1:42 left in the game. Jackson’s score was set up by quarterback Jason Baughman, who on third and 16 from Magnolia’s 36, connected with Brandon DeForrest on a 29-yard pass, giving Western a first and goal on the seven, with two minutes left.

Zaragoza led Magnolia, carrying the ball 11 times for 96 yards and two touchdowns. Running back Will Speer rushed for 57 yards in 14 carries and one touchdown.