Natomas throttles River Valley

The big play proved to be the downfall for the River Valley Falcons Friday night at home against Natomas.

Three of Natomas' touchdowns averaged 73 yards per play, which put the Falcons in a hole they were unable to dig out ofin a 35-8 loss.

River Valley remains winless inTri-Country Conference play heading into the season finale next Friday against rival Yuba City in the Mayor's Cup.

"We had a good game plan drawn up against them," said River Valley coach Brandon Asher. "They didn't drive the ball down the field on us, but the big scoring plays did us in."

It looked like the Falcons' defense was in for a big gamethroughout the first quarter. They held the Nighthawks to just one first down on their first two possessions. However, the offense was having their problems. A fumble and interception prevented the Falcons from sustaining any kind of drive.

The interception led to Natomas' first score at the start of the second quarter. Getting the ball at the River Valley 39, they went eight plays before scoring from the one and taking a 7-0 lead.

Then came a rash of big plays that set the tone the rest of the game.

After going three and out after the kickoff, the Falcons punted out-of-bounds at the Nighthawk 4-yard line. On second and 10, Natomas went to the air and hit paydirt as Joe Hill hit Mustafa Vercher with a pass at the 30, and he took off down the sidelines all the way for a 96-yard touchdown. It was the longest play all year for the Nighthawks.

On their next possession, Natomas ripped off a 57-yard touchdown run as the Falcons were still reeling from the big pass play the possession before.

Then just before halftime, Natomas added another touchdown run after a poor punt set the visitors up in excellent field position.

Two plays into the third quarter, the Nighthawks capped off their big night with a 66-yard run as they upped the score to 35-0.

The Falcons blocked a 31-yard field goal attempt and marched 76 yards, finishing with Roberts rambling in for the lone River Valley touchdown.

"I like that our guys didn't quit and were fighting the whole game," added Asher.

Next week is against Yuba City at home.

"It's a big game for us since we have never beaten them," said Asher. "And it's a big game for them because they are pushing for a playoff spot. We'll be ready.