THOUSAND OAKS – Thousand Oaks’s plan was simple: treat Friday’s game like the first round of the playoffs.
The Lancers needed a win to secure a spot in the CIF Southern Section playoffs. That’s exactly what they did, defeating Santa Barbara 34-28.
With a win over the Dons, the Lancers earned third place in the Cornejo Coast League, keeping their season alive.
“It sure felt like a playoff game,” Lancers head coach Ben McEnroe said. “We were a little rough on defense early but we adjusted during halftime. Credit to our coaches and kids for executing on defense. It was a well-rounded win. We played a similar blueprint to a playoff game and it was a lot of fun to be a part of.”
What started as a low-scoring affair quickly ballooned into a shootout, as the two teams matched each other blow for blow.
The game was tied 21-21 at halftime.
The Dons’ biggest touchdown of the first half was a 47-yard score. Two drives later, Lancers running back Justin Lewis scored with a 54-yard rushing touchdown.
“He’s a special kid,” McEnroe said. “We’re very fortunate (Lewis) is who he is. He’s a big strong kid and is hard to tackle. He’s a college-ready guy and we’re really happy to have him.”
The Dons threw an interception to Lancers defensive back Luke Sullivan right before the halftime buzzer. They capitalized with a 24-yard passing touchdown from quarterback Jackson Taylor to wide receiver Hayden Vercher.
Taylor ended the first half with 182 total yards and two passing touchdowns.
The Lancers began the second half with its defense forcing a quick three-and-out and its offense scoring on the ensuing possession. Then, the Lancers forced an interception late in the second half.
Midway through the fourth quarter, the Dons would score to tie the game at 28. With the clock winding down, a play needed to be made.
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Sullivan recorded his second interception of the game with less than a minute to go. Lewis scored again for this third touchdown of the night and officially sealed the victory.
Lewis ended his night with 193 total yards and three touchdowns.
“We had to make some changes coming off two straight losses,” Lewis said. “From there it was only up. When I’m out there it’s all instinct. Reading my blocks, watching film, and applying it to my game. Once I’m out there, I let God take over and the abilities he gave me prosper out there and just keep it going.”