Warriors ground game more than the Coyotes could handle

MATTAWA — The football game with Columbia-Burbank Friday night was reminiscent of two-prize fighters standing toe-to-toe exchanging blows with the last man standing the victor at the final bell.

This one belonged to the Warriors who outscored the Coyotes 66-44.

“The fans got their monies worth,” coach Mike Foristiere said. “We put up 733 total yards of offense and it was a good thing we did because we still had to contend with very good Columbia-Burbank team that put up a lot of points with their run-pass option offense.”

The game was a back and forth contest throughout the first half that had Wahluke up 38-30 at intermission.

“It took a while for our kids to adjust to their style offense,” Foristiere said. “It really wasn’t until the fourth quarter we caught on how to play defense. It was a real track meet until then.”

The Warriors only punted once in the game and turned the ball over one time as well.

Juan Silva who had 15 carries for 222 yards and a score led Wahluke’s ground attack that produced 673 yards. Fullback Rock Foristiere added 130 yards on 22 carries, two TDs and two 2-point conversions. Danial Ayala made the most of his eight carries with 172 yards and three touchdowns. Alex Rivera packed the loaf eight times for 60 yards and a score.

Quarterback Oscar Rodriguez completed four of seven passes for 60 yards. He tossed three 2-point conversions and ran for another. He also had five carries for 42 yards and two touchdowns.

The Warriors are back at it Friday when the team hosts the River View Panthers.

“They beat College Place in overtime, so we need to be on our game,” Foristiere said. “We still have a lot of work to do defensive-wise obviously — can’t expect to put a ton of points on the board each game. Defense is what wins it for you.”

Kickoff is 7 p.m.