On defense, the Gladiators kept the Spartans out of the end zone as defensive tackles Mason Gilmour, Robert O'Brien, Bobby Gazmarian, along with defensive ends McConnell and Robertson, played havoc with the Spartans running game while linebackers Brendan Sharman, Joey Vasquez, Jax Jacinto and defensive backs Kyle Chung, Tyler Jacinto and Ethan Lacey stopped the passing game. On defense, Nick McConnell had an interception that he returned 37 yards for a TD.
La Canada Gremlins
The La Canada Gremlins opened the 2005 season with a 6-0 win against the Covina Vikings at Covina on Sept. 18.
The game was a tough-fought defensive battle with the only score coming late the third quarter when running back Paul Gandara scored on a 22- yard run to give the Gladiators a 6-0 led. Gandara also had an interception at La Ca"ada's 15 yard line in the third quarter to stop Covina's only threat of the game.
On offense, quarterback Ty Gangi led the offense along with running backs Carlos Chiffer, Gandara, Ian Desdune and Anthony Madrid. The offensive line of center Michael Greenberg, guards Ryan Rubendall and Nick Peters, along with tackles Daniel Hernandez and Hunter Trowbridge and tight end Grant Owen blocked well all day.
Wide receivers Austin Muller, William Fairpoint, Scott Platisa, Joshua Franklin, and Grant Haxton all played well. On defense there were many standout plays including cornerback Jack Philo's key pass block and Gandara's interception.
Also on defense were Tanner Costi, Raron Brown, Chiffer, Tyler Vaughns, Nick Adamson, Gunner Trowbridge, William Richardson, Joey Vazquez, Nathan Grothe, and Erik Leef.
La Canada Pee Wees
The La Canada Pee Wees opened their season with a 30-14 victory over the host Covina Vikings on Sept.18.
