San Rafael wins football road opener over Sonoma Valley

San Rafael's aerial attack and swarming defense led the Bulldogs to a 24-13 opening night road victory over Sonoma Valley at Arnold Field.

The Bulldogs avenged a 17-7 loss at the beginning of last season to the Dragons.

"This was our Super Bowl," said San Rafael coach Amil Hall while riding in a raucous team bus. "This was a solid team game and the kids showed tremendous heart coming from behind."

San Rafael literally handed Sonoma Valley six points on the first play of the game with a botched backwards pass that was recovered in the end zone by the Dragons. The Bulldogs trailed 13-10 at half time.

"We had over 100 yards in penalties and some sloppy play to begin the game," said Hall. "But I have a really positive feeling about this team and we looked good."

Quarterback and cornerback Parker Shaw led the comeback and accounted for all of his teams' touchdowns. He threw for two scores and ran for the Dragon's lone rushing touchdown. In addition to his offense, Shaw sealed the victory late in the fourth quarter, with an interception in the end zone.

The Bulldogs limited a tough and disciplined Sonoma Valley team to 13 points. They were able to disrupt Dragon's head coach Mick O'Meara's potent offense with intense pressure on the quarterback.

San Rafael defensive end Sterling Reed lived in the oppositions backfield, recording two quarterback sacks and a forced fumble.

Reed also showed soft hands, hauling in five passes for 100 yards and one touchdown.

The Bulldogs entered the game with a feared running game led by Diego Camarillo and their "Georgia Tech Triple Option" but their ground attack was contained by an extremely well coached and disciplined Sonoma defense.

The San Rafael Bulldogs move to (1-0) and host Hercules next Friday, Sept. 10 at 4:30pm.