Harbor City, Ca- The LA High Romans came close to conquering Narbonne in highly anticipated non league game that resulted in 13-6 defeat in the South Bay Friday.
Everyone from the fans, players, coaches were ready to see if the Romans could measure up, oh boy did they. These two teams showed why the last two years they have been at the tops of their respective divisions.
It may be cliche’ but always hear, Defense wins championships. That was definitely the case by the Romans and Gauchos who both shut down drives with key interceptions all throughout the game.
Pressure from the front sevens were a big part of the game plans. Late in game on 4th and long Narbonne quarterback Jalen Chatman scrambled before throwing hail mary that was plucked out the air by Tyrone Marshall. This score was just enough offensive to escape the Romans and remain unbeaten before starting up league play next week.
LA High showed on the opening drive that they belonged with a deep 40 yards reception across the 50 yard line. Then few penalties and Narbonne defense stepped up to kill the drive.
Both teams had similar drive all night, as soon as things would get going a big swing in momentum would come. The Romans took a big blow when controversy wide receiver out bounds call nullified a tying touchdown.
With the game hanging in the balance at 6-6 in the fourth quarter it was still anybody’s ball game.
Narbonne behind Chatman’s arm was working on quick seem routes but LA’s tight coverage matched with the pressure only allowed for 180 yards, two touchdowns with four interceptions.
One of top players on the field not playing quarterback was Javon Mitchell a multi-purpose player who had two interceptions and a bunch of first down catches to extend drives. Certain players just know how to make plays when needed.
After tonight’s loss the city section as whole knows to add some RESPECK on it when they say LA High Football.
Next up for Narbonne will host Gardena Friday at 7 p.m. and LA High will host Dorsey Friday at 3 p.m.