Unbeaten Green Valley routs Bonanza for homecoming win

Last year, injuries forced Green Valley High’s Kalyja Waialae to play quarterback. Starter A.J. Barilla went down, and Waialae, a receiver, had to fill in.

With Barilla healthy this year, Waialae moved back to his natural position and had one of the best receiving games of his career Thursday, catching six passes for 139 yards and three touchdowns as the Gators cruised a 55-8 homecoming victory over Bonanza.

The running game also was strong for the Gators (4-0), as Julian Hulse ran for 124 yards and Desmond Bowers scored three rushing touchdowns. It allowed Green Valley to open up its passing game, and Barilla was ruthlessly efficient.

The senior quarterback threw for 226 yards and four touchdowns on 13 of 17 passing. He connected with six receivers, including a touchdown pass to Hulse, and did not throw an interception.

Green Valley’s defense was also superb. After allowing the Bengals (1-3) to run 14 plays on their opening drive, the Gators held Bonanza to 14 plays on its next three series.

Daunte Watson had two interceptions for the Gators, and Bowers forced a fumble on a kickoff with Braxton Harms making the recovery and a return for a touchdown.

Contact Justin Emerson at jemerson @reviewjournal.com or (702) 387-2944. Follow @J15emerson on Twitter.