Imperial Remains Undefeated With 27-19 Victory Over MadisoN Last week

IMPERIAL — The Imperial High School Tigers (3-0 overall) hosted the Madison High Warhawks (0-3 overall) Friday night in a non-league contest, defeating the visitors 27-19 to remain unbeaten on the season.

The Tigers opened the game with momentum after senior wide receiver Mario Gaxiola intercepted a pass to secure the first down. On the following drive, sophomore running back Deren Hueso broke through the Warhawks’ defense for the opening touchdown. With a successful extra point, Imperial held a 7-0 lead with 11:16 remaining in the first quarter.

Defensive stops from Landon Bernal, Ernesto Vargas, and Levi Mincher kept Madison off the scoreboard. Quarterback Santonio Ureña extended the Tigers’ advantage midway through the second quarter with a drive that set up Hueso’s second touchdown. Moments later, senior wide receiver Gio Robles hauled in an 18-yard reception for another score, sending Imperial into halftime up 20-0.

The Tigers’ defense closed the half strong, highlighted by a sack from senior linebacker Samuel Ruvalcaba and an interception by sophomore strong safety Danny Alcala.

Imperial maintained its lead through the third quarter, entering the final frame ahead 20-7. Early in the fourth, Gaxiola added a touchdown to widen the margin. Despite a late push from the Warhawks, who scored twice in the final minutes, the Tigers held on for a 27-19 win.

Standout performances came from Hueso and Ureña on the ground, with Gaxiola and Robles providing key plays on offense. Strong line play from Mincher and Larios gave Imperial the edge in the trenches on both sides of the ball.

Valley Sports Network named #2 Deren Hueso and #12 Santonio Ureña as Players of the Game.

The Tigers will remain at home next Friday, September 12, when they host the Fallbrook High Warriors in another non-league matchup. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.