Las Vegas Sun

March 29, 2024

kickoff 2018:

Bonanza defense records shutout in win against Valley

LVSUN HSFB Media Day 2018

Christopher DeVargas

Members of the Bonanza High football team pose for a photo at the Las Vegas Sun’s high school football media day Tuesday July 31, 2018 at the Red Rock Resort and Casino. They include, from left, Justwin Encher, Kyle Allison and Justin Bacon.

With the power out in the area near Valley High School in central Las Vegas, officials agreed the opening night football game between the Vikings and visiting Bonanza would strictly be a scrimmage.

They’d start early, play with a running clock and try to get in one hour of action. So, they kicked off about 30 minutes earlier than scheduled.

But, a few minutes later, the power was restored. The exhibition again became a real game, and Bonanza’s defense recorded a shutout in a 21-0 victory.

“We didn’t know if we were going to get the lights, so that got us off our game a little bit,” Bonanza coach Dion Lee said. “We did a good job of staying ready.”

Bonanza forced five turnovers under first-year coordinator Stan Davis’ guidance.

Shamarion Bellegarde had a pair of touchdown receptions from Kyle Allison, and Justin Bacon rushed for more than 100 yards and a touchdown.

“We are going to take this win and enjoy it,” said Bonanza senior defensive back Cevion Gurka, who had an interception.

While the Bengals’ victory was a rewarding opening night showing, there’s still plenty to work on. They committed four turnovers and had many penalties.

“This is the first game. We have only been in pads for a week,” Lee said. “It was a glorified scrimmage.”

Ray Brewer can be reached at 702-990-2662 or [email protected]. Follow Ray on Twitter at twitter.com/raybrewer21