Photo by Hugh Cox.
Speaking with head coach Joe Early after last weeks frustrating loss to Saddleback College, he had hoped for a good week of practice and for his team to come out and execute their game plan much better than they did that night. The Comets did just that on Saturday when they defeated the Grossmont Griffins 41-24 at Mashin-Roth stadium.
In a game that was much more lopsided than the final score, the Comets led 27-6 after three quarters, it was Palomar’s shutdown defense and methodical running game that helped improve their record to 3-2 this season. Defensive backs Cory Salazar and Bryan Jones each returned interceptions for touchdowns to go along with two fumbles recoveries by defensive lineman Hunter Moore that were part of the impressive defensive performance.
Offensively, receiver M.J. Bailey and running back Justin Harris led the charge. Bailey had five catches on the day for 51 yards and two scores. Harris, the sophomore from Chapparal High School, had an excellent day rushing for 190 yards on 28 carries and scoring one touchdown. Quarterback Brett Hollingsworth also made his first appearance since suffering a concussion in the Week 2 game against Long Beach City College.
The Comets next game is Saturday night at Escondido High School’s Wilson stadium when they play hosts to the visiting Moorpark Raiders.
Image Sources
- Bryce Alexander Football 2014: Photo courtesy of Hugh Cox. | Used With Permission