Loara Turns Seven Katella Turnovers Into 28-7 Victory

ANAHEIM — Loara took advantage of seven turnovers to beat Katella, 28-7, in an Empire League game Thursday night at Western High School.

Loara (3-4, 1-1) forced five fumbles, intercepted two passes and converted two turnovers into touchdowns.

The Saxons jumped ahead late in the first quarter after both teams struggled offensively. Running back Kerry Peoples scored on a three-yard run on Loara’s third possession.

Katella (0-7, 0-2) fumbled on each of its next three possessions, the last resulting in a Loara score. Loara running back Korei Kilborn scored on an eight-yard run with 59 seconds left in the half to put the Saxons up, 14-0.

The Knights’ Drew Kroger returned the ensuing kickoff 85 yards for Katella’s only score, making the score 14-7 at halftime.

Loara started slowly in the third quarter, but struck again on their third possession of the half. Quarterback Jim Kirkland hit Eddie Williams on a 12-yard touchdown pass for a 21-7 advantage.

Kilborn scored his second touchdown of the game on a three-yard run with five minutes remaining to seal the 28-7 victory.

Kirkland completed eight of 20 passes for 92 yards and Kilborn ran for 40 yards in 10 carries for Loara.