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Deacon Moss of Irvine catches a pass for a big gain on the opening drive. (Photos courtesy Jim Tomlin, For OC Sports Zone).
Irvine High School’s football team battled back from a 10-2 halftime deficit to defeat Portola 31-10 in a nonleague game Friday night at Irvine Stadium.
It was the season opener for both teams.
Irvine struggled in the first half with three turnovers.
To see the slide show, click on the first picture:
The defense kept the Vaqueros in the game and sophomore cornerback Deacon Moss came through with two interceptions, one a pick six. Moss, in his first varsity game, also had a 16-yard catch.
Senior linebacker Harry Soltes also stood out on defense for Irvine.
Offensively, Irvine was led by Kendyn Beaver, who rushed for 145 yards. Nathan Sasaki rushed for 65 yards and two touchdowns. Irvine had 260 yards in total rushing.
Irvine quarterback Joseph Tierney had one completion for 16 yards.
Former legendary coach Terry Henigan was welcomed before the game and joined in the coin toss.
Coach Tom Ricci’s Irvine team hosts Canyon Friday night at Irvine Stadium. Portola, coached by Peter Abe, hosts Summit Academy from Bluffale, Utah next Friday night.
—Tim Burt, OC Sports Zone; timburt@ocsportszone.com
