Football: Sterling Salguero comes through for Birmingham

City Section teams struggled in intersectional games but not Birmingham. All-City running back Sterling Salguero rushed for 184 yards in the Patriots’ 22-20 win over Newbury Park.

It was an important win considering Birmingham still has tough nonleague games ahead against Sherman Oaks Notre Dame, Oaks Christian and Chaminade.

“I think it’s a huge start for us,” Coach Jim Rose said.

Crenshaw traveled to San Diego and was beaten by Mission Hills, 38-26. One issue for the Cougars was their kicking game. Sophomore Rayshawn Williams had an 80-yard touchdown reception from Daiyan Henley. Sylmar lost to Crespi, 43-20, an improvement over last year when the Spartans lost, 42-0. Hollywood routed Hoover, 41-0.

Roosevelt knocked off Fairfax, 51-34. Kicker Henry Gomez had two successful onside kicks in the second half that led to touchdowns. He was forced to change strategies because the Lions’ Ramses Hernandez returned a kickoff for a touchdown, returned a punt for a touchdown and had another touchdown running.

Venice opened with a 28-21 win over Granada Hills. Hawkins, expected to be one of the top teams in Division II, defeated View Park, 45-0. Taft pulled out 41-31 win over Canoga Park. Chris Duncan had three touchdown passes.

South Gate rolled to a 46-8 win over Westchester. Jamaal Neal caught two touchdown passes and was terrific playing safety. Outside linebacker Oscar Barba had an interception return for a touchdown and made nine tackles.

North Hollywood defeated Franklin, 28-20. Jay Ignacio rushed for two touchdowns and Jeremiah Cassell scored two touchdowns and had an interception to seal the victory.

Twitter:@LATSondheimer