Estimated read time: 1-2 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
SALT LAKE CITY — East made a statement in the season opener dominating 5A contender Alta 42-24.
"Yeah, it was fun," said East defensive end Korey Rush. "We just put in a lot of work and Alta's probably one of the best teams in 5A. It just feels really good."
The Leopards forced Alta quarterback Chipper Lucero to throw three interceptions, including one that was returned by Tualagi Laupata for a 30-yard touchdown. They also sacked and hit Lucero multiple times.
East entered the season eager to put the controversy surrounding their 2012 season behind them.
"I wouldn't say it's an emotional thing, but they're really high energy right now," East head coach Brandon Matich said about his team. "They can't wait to get on the field. We felt like we were caged dogs in the locker room. We couldn't wait to get out there so it's a fun group to coach."
On offense, East quarterback Isaac Valles was efficient leading the Leopard offense on three scoring drives in the first half. Two of those drives were capped off by touchdown passes from Valles to tight end Joe Tukuafu. They led 28-10 at the half.
Alta tried to rally in the 3rd quarter when Lucero connected with Carter Heslop for a 42-yard catch and run cutting the gap to 28-16.
East would put the game away shortly after when running back Ula Tolutau, who is committed to Wisconsin, rumbled 57 yards for a touchdown giving the Leopards a 35-16 lead.
