Valley Christian, led by Ryan Severson, raced past Burlingame for a 56-14 victory, keeping its dream of a CCS Division III title alive. The Warriors advance to the semifinals to face Sobrato, which defeated Archbishop Riordan Saturday night.
The Warriors (5-6) were coming off a 45-0 victory against Archbishop Riordan and had little trouble against Burlingame (5-6) which was coming off its own blowout triumph -- a 41-13 victory against San Mateo in the Little Big Game.
“Got to give Valley Christian credit, they played an outstanding game and we knew contending with their speed was going to be a big challenge,” said Panther coach John Philipopoulos. “They were the better team tonight. We wish them the best of luck.”
Severson rushed for 196 yards on only six carries and had four long rushing touchdowns. He put the Warriors up 21-0 in the first quarter scoring the first three touchdowns.
“On offense we worked and moved as a team on the line,” said Warriors offensive lineman Charlie Nelson. “We came together as brothers and the preparation going into this game was phenomenal and allowed to focus and come out on top tonight.”
The third of Severson's three consecutive TDs was a 76-yard punt return.
Severson added a fourth score in the second period with a 70-yard run. But Burlingame showed some signs of life after falling behind 28-0.
Panther quarterback Kevin Navas rallied his offense by handing it off to junior running back Manase Palu for a 20-yard gain. Then Navas completed a 23-yard pass to junior receiver Keone Keahi. The Panthers capped the scoring drive with Palu powering his way into the end zone to put the Panthers on the board 28-7.
Momentum picked up even more when Burlingame lineman Brock Harmon recovered an onside kick putting the Panthers back on offense. Malu used his speed up the sideline for a 45-yard touchdown run, bringing the Panthers to within 28-14.
Valley Christian seemed to be letting the lead slip away, but Severson responded with a 50-yard touchdown run with three minutes left in the half.
Severson then intercepted a pass and returned it 39 yards, leading to a Kirk Johnson touchdown run and a 42-14 Warrior halftime lead.
Despite a tough regular season, a section championship is now in reach for the Warriors who would like nothing better than to finish the season with championship rings.
“I know we can win the championship,” said Severson. “It’s going to take dedication and teamwork, but there is no reason why we should lose.”
Next up for the Warriors is a visit to Morgan Hill to take on Sobrato, which is a higher seed than Valley Christian but will likely have to play its best to contain Severson, Johnson & Co.
