Las Vegas Sun

March 29, 2024

Coronado defense holds steady in win over Moapa Valley

Las Vegas Sun's HSFB Media Day Team Portraits

Christopher DeVargas

Members of the Coronado High School football team are pictured during the Las Vegas Sun’s high school football media day at the Red Rock Resort on July 24, 2019. They include, from left, RJ Sutton, Keegan Tharp and Riley Danielson.

Not every game is going to be pretty. But Coronado will exchange a perfect performance for a victory every time.

The Cougars had three giveaways and surrendered a safety in a low-scoring affair against Moapa Valley in Overton, but the defense held strong on Moapa Valley’s final drive as Coronado escaped with a 9-8 win Friday.

“I think we bounced back from last week,” Coronado coach Fred Biletnikoff said after his team lost to Foothill last week. “We went up there and got a good win on the road.”

The Cougars took the lead on a field goal late set up by a Drew Montez 60-yard reception, one of six catches for 150 yards and a touchdown on the night. The defense also forced a fumble and had two interceptions.

Moapa Valley had a chance to win it, getting the ball back on its own 25-yard line down one point with 1:42 left. A pass interference got them to the 40, but they could not convert on a 4th-and-1, as Coronado turned the ball over on downs and sealed the win.

Justin Emerson can be reached at 702-259-8814 or [email protected]. Follow Justin on Twitter at twitter.com/@j15emerson.