The Cate 8-man football team scored early and often en route to a 60-28 victory over Valley Christian Academy on Saturday in Santa Maria.
“The team had to overcome some illness during the week, and we had to modify practice significantly leading up to the game,” Rams head coach Ben Soto said. “I am impressed by the team for working through the adversity and challenges this week to still put forth a great effort.”
Cate quarterback Sam Lambiotte opened the game with a bang, ripping off a 60-yard touchdown run on the first play from scrimmage to take a 6-0 lead. After a defensive stop, Lambiotte broke free for a 55-yard rushing score on his second carry just three minutes later to double the lead to 12-0.
Lambiotte added two more rushing touchdowns in the second quarter and added on a pick-six on the defensive end to give his Rams a 46-14 halftime lead.
Cate continued to cruise on both sides of the ball on its way to the lopsided road victory.
Will Murray shined on the defensive end with an interception and a fumble recovery, while Marcelo Emal-Langrand racked up eight tackles and Marcus Wong recorded four tackles and a sack.
While Lambiotte’s four offensive touchdowns led the charge, both Henry Schneider and Henry Helson found the end zone with their first career rushing touchdowns.
“It was terrific to see some of our newcomers like Helson and Schneider make the most of their opportunity tonight and get us some points,” Soto said. “When we get healthy and keep working, the future of this group looks bright.
“Sam Lambiotte has been outstanding at the helm of the offense and has helped the team average 50 points per game through the first two contests.”
The Rams (2-0) will head into their bye week before opening up Tri-Valley League action against Pasadena Poly at home on Saturday, Sept. 19 at 3 p.m.
