Irwindale witnessed an intense season opener on March 15, 2024, as the Rio Hondo Prep football team triumphed over Schurr with a score of 20-9. The victory, however, came at a cost, as star running back Noah Penunri sustained an injury late in the second quarter and was subsequently transported to a hospital for evaluation.
Penunri’s injury was a significant blow to the Kares, who struggled early on. Coach Mark Carson emphasized the decision to send Penunri for further assessment was made for his safety. “He’s going to be fine, we think. Just taking precautions, they wanted to take him in,” Carson remarked after the game.
Despite Penunri’s absence, Rio Hondo Prep demonstrated resilience. The Kares managed to rally and secure the victory, with Calogero Chico stepping up in a pivotal role. Chico rushed for over 100 yards and scored a touchdown, vital contributions that helped propel the team to victory.
Team Resilience and Defensive Dominance
The first half of the match was characterized by defensive strength from both teams, resulting in a combined score of fewer than ten points. The Spartans initially took the lead with a 36-yard field goal from Robert Olivares at 3:55 in the first quarter, putting them ahead 3-0.
Rio Hondo Prep responded late in the second quarter, with quarterback Yanick Diaz connecting with Elias Har for a 37-yard touchdown pass, giving the Kares a 6-3 lead just before halftime. This score was achieved without the presence of Penunri, showcasing the depth of the Kares’ roster.
The second half began with a fumble from the Kares, but their defense held strong, preventing Schurr from capitalizing on the turnover. Coach Carson praised his team’s defensive effort, stating, “We thought our defense did a great job because that could’ve been a turning point in the game.”
With renewed momentum, Rio Hondo Prep quickly shifted gears offensively. Shortly thereafter, Chico broke free for a stunning 63-yard touchdown, increasing the Kares’ lead to 13-3 in the third quarter. Tyler Dang then sealed the victory with a 50-yard touchdown carry with just over five minutes remaining.
Looking Ahead
Schurr’s head coach, Austin Montoya, acknowledged the challenges faced by his team, citing the inexperience of their lineup. “I think we looked like we had a freshman quarterback and four brand new starters along the offensive line. We couldn’t get out of our own way,” Montoya said, indicating room for improvement as his team prepares for their next matchup against La Serna.
While Schurr faces a tough challenge ahead, the Kares look forward to their upcoming game against Quartz Hill. The resilience shown by Rio Hondo Prep in the face of adversity, particularly after losing their key player, highlights the team’s potential as they advance through the season. With Coach Carson’s optimism regarding Penunri’s condition, fans are hopeful for a swift recovery and return to the field.
