Lynwood Interception Helps Topple Saddleback

Tramel Brown’s 53-yard interception return for a touchdown was the key play that helped visiting Lynwood defeat Saddleback, 17-7, Friday at Santa Ana Stadium.

The Roadrunners were leading, 7-3, early in the fourth quarter and driving for an additional score. Saddleback quarterback Sal Pedroza threw a flare pass that the Knights’ defensive end intercepted, giving Lynwood a 10-7 lead.

On their next possession, the Knights drove 56 yards on 10 plays, using five minutes. The drive was capped off by a 13-yard touchdown run by Emory Beckles.

Lynwood had a chance to increase its lead. Saddleback fumbled a punt attempt, giving the Knights the ball at the Roadrunner 20. On the second play of the drive, running back Anthony Alexander ran up the middle 18 yards for an apparent touchdown. One problem; he forgot the ball at the one. Saddleback recovered in the end zone for a touchback.

The Roadrunners’ lone score came in the second quarter. Pedroza hit receiver Derrick Barnes on a six-yard fade pattern in the corner of the end zone for a 7-0 lead at halftime.

Joseph Tagaloa, Saddleback’s standout running back and defensive back, hurt his knee in last week’s game and has held out of Friday’s game.