The PCC football team started off conference play Saturday with an upset victory over 3rd ranked, and undefeated Fullerton College. The final score of 30-20 was attained by The Lancer’s opportunistic defense, and the poised arm of third-string quarterback Zeke Julien.
The game started off with Fullerton returning the opening kickoff for a touchdown, but this proved to be the most electric play in a Fullerton offense that struggled against a strong PCC defense.
Lead by defensive lineman Pone Faleofa, who recorded three sacks and one forced fumble, PCC held the Hornets to 195 yards and six fumbles.
Faleofa credited PCC’s bye week for their defensive success “It was just based on our two weeks of practice, and our focus; just focusing on getting the job done,” he said.
On the offensive side of the ball, PCC took a blow in the first quarter when quarterback Cesar Hernandez went down with an ankle sprain, bringing in freshman Julien.
“I’m not gonna lie, I was nervous,” Julien said, “I wanted my opportunity and I got it and my teammates were behind me.”
Julien managed the game well, completing 10 passes on 17 attempts for 80 yards with no interceptions, and rushing for two touchdowns on must-score possessions.
Head Coach Fred Fimbres praised Julien’s strong quarterback play “I didn’t think that all was lost when Cesar went down. Julien has proved capable [of] making good decisions,” he said.
PCC wide receiver Wayne Peters remains the Lancers’ most potent offensive weapon accumulating a game-high eight receptions for 54 yards. Peters’ reception total for the year, 50, leads the state.
PCC will next play at undefeated and No. 1 ranked team in the conference, Saddleback College on Oct 22.
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