KING CITY — It’s time for the longest football rivalry in South Monterey County, when the Gonzales Spartans travel to King City on Thursday to face the Mustangs.
In last year’s game, the King City Mustangs were able to have their way with the Spartans, dominating them for the majority of the game. This year we should see more of a competitive game, as both schools are 0-2 to start the season.
King City’s team has seen its troubles on the offensive end. So far this year, they have only one offensive touchdown.
The good news for the Mustangs is they did move the ball down the field better against Alisal. On defense, they might be as talented individually as they were last year, but they have been very good to start the season with two defensive touchdowns.
Gonzales has been close this season to ending their losing streak. In the Spartans’ last game against Pacific Grove, they came up short by a point.
Don’t let the Spartans’ record fool you. Their young guys from last year will not be surprised this year, making a dangerous team once they win their first game.
Thursday, Sept. 8
Gonzales Spartans (0-2) vs. King City Mustangs (0-2)
7:30 p.m. at King City High
Gonzales Spartans
What We Know: The Spartans this season are putting up some points through the ground. With two players with three rushing touchdowns, they can control the pace of the game on a hot Thursday night in King City.
Players to Watch: Running back Champ Flores has gotten off to a great start. In two games this season, he has rushed for over 100 yards each, including a 217 rushing-yard game in his last game. Adrian Perez, who is tied for the lead in tackles, also has three touchdowns and leads the team in receiving yards.
Questions: Can the Spartans finish a game and break their long losing streak?
King City Mustangs
What We Know: When watching the Mustangs, you can see glimpses of what they can be. But until they fix the offense side of the ball, they will have to rely on that opportunistic approach when they get a chance of a turnover.
Players to Watch: Adan Garcia-Loa has emerged as the top weapon for the Mustangs. In two games, he has a team-high of 10 receptions for 175 yards. Quarterback Jjey Martinez will have to find a way to get his team in the endzone if they want any chance of winning this game.
Prediction (2-0): For this edition of the battle for the megaphone, you can’t see one team dominating in this game. You can make a case for both teams, but just because King City is at home, I’ll go with them — 24-21.
