Trojans optimistic for nondistrict perfection




Charlotte’s Brandon Sanchez runs with the ball against St. Gerard on Sept. 21. MARGARET GALLEGOS | PLEASANTON EXPRESS

Charlotte’s Brandon Sanchez runs with the ball against St. Gerard on Sept. 21. MARGARET GALLEGOS | PLEASANTON EXPRESS

Charlotte’s football team extended its unbeaten start by defeating St. Gerard 36-12 on homecoming night.

The Trojans (4-0) quickly gained the advantage as Mark Gaitan returned the opening kickoff for a touchdown. Jevon Santos threw a touchdown pass to Max Rowland on Charlotte’s third play of the first series.

Charlotte held St. Gerard silent until the fourth quarter. This was the third game in which the Trojans held opponents to 12 or fewer points.

Charlotte head coach Rene Ortega said the team can turn heads with a win on Sept. 28 at Sabinal (0-4).

Charlotte has allowed 55 points through four games while Sabinal has scored 34 points.

“This isn’t the game that will make or break us, but it will make people respect us,” he said.

When the Trojans last started 4-0 in 2007, they finished 5-5 and out of the playoffs. Ortega said the team’s outlook is different.

“I feel we can beat most of the teams in our district. I have [the players’] backs. They have my back. The kids trust us,” he said.

Charlotte is one of three teams in District 15 2A-2 that have started 4-0, along with Pettus and Falls City.

Ortega said the team has had strong play in all three phases — offense, defense and special teams.

“Our special teams is one of the best in the area. We block punts every game,” he said.

He said the team has finally found the kicker it needs in Alex Martinez, who made all four extra point attempts against St. Gerard.

Correction: The article and stats in last week’s issue misspelled Max Rowland’s name. We regret the error.

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