Key players step up as Sardis Falcons edge Mission in close exhibition battle to open the 2024 season

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CHILLIWACK — Despite blistering hot weather conditions, and an early deficit that greeted them, the Sardis Secondary Falcons varsity football team turned to several facets of its game to defend its home turf in a 26-20 exhibition win over the Mission Roadrunners at Rick Klassen Field last Friday.

Sardis (1-0 exhibition record) scored first when senior running back Claudio Gomez bolted 65 yards for a touchdown. Mission responded with two quick touchdowns to retake the lead, but the Falcons worked their way back into the game. Kaien Jenner, a senior receiver and safety, had 7 catches for 122 yards and also produced a crucial interception late in the game.

Senior Tim Bullert dominated on both sides of the ball by rushing for a key late-game touchdown, while slowing down the Roadrunners rushing game.

Sardis senior quarterback Blake Mailhot completed 12 of 23 passes for 146 yards to keep the Falcons right in the thick of things.

“Both teams played well,” said Sardis Falcons varsity head coach Sukh Parmar. “It was a hot afternoon, and both teams competed hard. I was very proud of our effort. Our seniors stepped up and delivered. It was a good team win.”

The Falcons host Salmon Arm this Friday, September 13 at 2:30 p.m. at Rick Klassen Field.