The Dougherty Valley Wildcats football team defeated the Las Lomas Knights 12-7 in the first non-league home game on Aug. 26.

The first home game had a rough start for the Wildcats. In the second play, Wildcats suffered a fumble leading to a turnover to the Knights. But during the second quarter, Wildcat, Michael Smith, made an incredible interception that helped the Wildcats get closer to the end zone. However, during the third quarter, Wildcat 52, Craig Gin, suffered a knee injury that caused him to be taken out of the rest of the game. With 14 seconds left in the game at the six-yard line, with the Knights in control of the ball, the Wildcats made two incredible blocks in the end zone and prevented the Knights from making the winning touchdown, claiming victory at home.

Even with the first win of the season, coach Nick Tisa was not satisfied with their performance.

“I thought we would be ahead a lot more than we [were],” Tisa said after the game.

The following week, Dougherty Valley lost 42-0 on Sept. 2 league challenge with host Amador Valley Dons.

Throughout the game, Amador’s quarterback Jordan Griffin had a strong performance with the help of his trusted wide receiver Ndem Okoro. They had a multiple touchdown game, giving the Dons their first victory against the Wildcats. Amador’s Matthew Rumsey made an interception, beginning DV’s struggles throughout the night. Amador would score another four touchdowns in the second half before finally winning the game 42-0.

“We didn’t make the plays we really wanted to make,” Tisa remarked.  

On Sept. 16, the Wildcats returned from their two away games to take on the 2-0 Monte Vista Mustangs. However, during the game, DV never reached the end zone, turning the ball over to the Mustangs more than four times. The second half was mostly quiet, with Dougherty limiting Monte Vista to only two touchdowns during the third and fourth quarters, ending the game 59-0.

“We played with a lack of confidence and low energy. Monte Vista was the better team but we didn’t play up to our potential. You just can’t come out as a flat football team in EBAL. Teams will take advantage of that and Monte Vista came to play,” Tisa commented on the game.

Next up for the Wildcats is the Livermore Cowboys, who they play on Sept. 30 at Livermore High School. The next home game will take place on Oct. 14 against the California Grizzlies.