Saddleback Uses Basics to Beat University

SANTA ANA — If it wasn’t textbook offense, it was close.

By establishing the run first and then going to the pass, Saddleback effectively covered the basics in a 33-15 Sea View League victory over University Thursday night at Santa Ana Stadium.

The Roadrunners (3-3, 2-1 in league) rushed for 37 yards in six carries during their first drive of the game, which resulted in a one-yard touchdown run by Adolfo Ornelas at the 7-minute 7-second mark of the first quarter. A University fumble then led to a six-play, 35-yard drive by Saddleback in which the Roadrunners stayed exclusively on the ground, finishing with Shon Caldwell’s eight-yard touchdown run.

Once University (0-6, 0-3) was forced to honor the run, Saddleback quarterback Danny Ruvulo took advantage of good pass protection to throw for 129 yards. Ruvulo’s 46-yard touchdown pass to Larry Maruffo midway through the third quarter gave Saddleback a comfortable 26-7 lead.

Ornelas finished with 89 yards in 14 carries and Aaron Pulsifer added 66 yards in 10 carries. University wide receiver Dov Herbstman had eight receptions for 108 yards, including a 22-yard touchdown catch from quarterback Chris Peake in the third quarter.