Pirates sail past Tornadoes

The Braden River High football team defeated Booker High 17-6 in its annual Preseason Kickoff Classic Aug. 26.

After a sluggish first quarter, which included two turnovers, the visiting Pirates took a 7-0 lead on quarterback Steven Ross’ 24-yard touchdown pass to his younger brother Justin with 10:43 remaining in the first half. The touchdown was freshman Justin Ross’ first touchdown in a Pirates uniform. Justin Ross also intercepted a pass in the final minutes of the first half.

Braden River added to its lead with 1:05 remaining in the first half when kicker Michael Unzicher hit a 26-yard field goal.

The Pirates extended their lead on a 12-yard touchdown run by Ryan Fischer with 8:39 remaining in the third quarter.

Booker’s lone touchdown came on a 2-yard touchdown run by Michael Jones with 7:11 remaining in the game.

Braden River returns to action at 7:30 p.m., Sept. 2 when the team hosts East County rival Lakewood Ranch, which fell to Sarasota 47-22 tonight in its Preseason Kickoff Classic.

For a complete story and photos from tonight’s game be sure to pick up the Sept. 1 issue of the East County Observer.