GALT, CA (MPG) - The Jr. Warriors Jr. Novice team opened its postseason in impressive fashion, shutting out the Waterford Jr. Sabercats 20-0 in the first round of the playoffs at Warrior Stadium on Friday Nov. 1.

These two teams met once during the regular season, with the Jr. Warriors earning the win. But in this playoff rematch, the Sabercats came ready to compete, matching the Warriors’ intensity from the opening kickoff.

The first half was a defensive battle. Each squad traded stops and big tackles, refusing to let the other gain momentum. Linebackers filled gaps, defensive backs blanketed receivers and both offensive lines struggled to establish control at the line of scrimmage. At halftime, the scoreboard remained locked at 0-0, as neither team could break through.

 

With Waterford facing a group of Warriors, Nash Nelson (No. 72) has a quarterback sack. Photos Courtesy of Selina Nicole Photography

Coming out of the break, the Jr. Warriors made key adjustments on both sides of the ball. Their offense began to find rhythm, leaning on a strong ground attack that steadily wore down the Sabercats’ defense. The Warriors’ offensive line created holes, and their running backs showed patience and power, grinding out tough yards on every carry.

Midway through the third quarter, the Warriors finally struck first with a powerful touchdown run to take a 6-0 lead. The score energized the home crowd and shifted the game’s momentum decisively in the Warriors’ favor.

That score lit a spark throughout the entire roster. The Jr. Warriors’ defense continued to dominate, forcing turnovers, breaking up passes and shutting down every Sabercat drive. The defensive front seven consistently pressured the Waterford quarterback, while the secondary made critical plays in coverage.

The offense fed off that energy, adding two more touchdowns in the fourth quarter to extend the lead and seal the victory. By the time the final whistle blew, the scoreboard read Jr. Warriors 20, Jr. Sabercats 0.

 

Jeremiah Belaski (No. 7) has the catch for Galt.

It was a complete team performance from start to finish: discipline, toughness and execution on full display.

“Our kids showed tremendous heart tonight,” said Jr. Warriors President Noel Campos. “To come out and play that kind of defense in a playoff game, and then finish strong when it mattered most: That’s what championship teams do. We’re proud of their effort and excited to see what they can do next week.”

With the win, the Jr. Warriors advance to the second round of the playoffs, where they’ll look to carry their momentum and continue their postseason run. The victory marks another chapter in what has been an outstanding season for the Jr. Novice squad, which has consistently demonstrated resilience and teamwork throughout the year.

The Jr. Warriors will await their next opponent as they prepare for the second-round matchup, keeping their championship aspirations alive with a dominant playoff debut.