The Culver City Sixth Grade flag football team, the Panthers, beat visiting Westside Innovative School House II 12-0 yesterday.
The Panthers continued their defensive dominance holding WISH to 37 yards and keeping WISH far from the end zone. The defense was led by linebacker/cornerback Emmanuel Shaw, safety William Schultz, cornerback/safety David Lee, cornerback Royce Williams, safety Leo Matsuoka, defensive ends Thomas Chee, Alba Navas, Getu Whitney and cornerback Brandon Zeidman.
The game was scoreless at halftime, but the Culver City offense was about to get started. On the opening drive of the second half, quarterback Schultz started the scoring with a 52-yard touchdown scamper on a broken play. The Panthers failed to convert the extra point, taking a 6-0 lead. Culver City threatened again on the next series. Royce Williams ran 25 yards on a reverse, only to see the play called back on a flag guard penalty. After the Culver City drive stalled on the 10 yard line, the defense took over. Four plays later, WISH failed to move the ball, and Culver City took possession.
On the next play, Shaw sealed the victory, rushing right for a 10-yard touchdown, giving Culver City an insurmountable lead. Williams led the Panthers with 57 yards rushing. Quarterback Elijah Adams rushed for 25 on a quarterback sneak. The offensive line, led by Miro Garrett, John Kim, Abel Adebe, and Thomas Chee, opened up huge holes for the Panther runners.
Coach Maurice Shaw seemed relieved after the game. “We looked a bit out of it during the first half, but the players really came on strong in the second half,” he said. “I am proud of their effort.” Center Miro Garrett was understandably excited. “It is fun,” he said. “Come on, it’s football. We get to hit people. It’s not only allowed but encouraged. We are lucky to have Coach Shaw. I’ve learned so much already, and the results show how great a coach he is.”
Culver City, 2-0, plays Frank D. Parent Middle School of Inglewood next Friday at 4 on the Culver City campus, behind the Middle School.
Mr. Zeidman may be contacted at scott.zeidman@laslots.com