STORY BY MATT SIMON
Compton’s senior Johnathan Fernandez admitted he was hyped before Friday night’s game against Millikan.
Fernandez, who missed the first six games of the season, showed his excitement on the opening drive as he left Millikan defenders on their backs multiple times as the Tarbabes marched 70 yards to score on their first possession.
“I’m excited to back, I’ve been waiting,” Fernandez said. “I wanted to come back last week against Jordan, but wasn’t feeling good. I’m ready to go now.”
Fernandez’s versatility on the line was evident as Compton moved the senior from left to right tackle looking for mismatches.
Compton (4-3, 1-2) rode its line to victory rushing for 416 yards on 54 carries and seven touchdowns, topping Millikan 48-42.
“Tonight our guys came and played tonight and really kept their composure,” Compton coach Calvin Bryant said. “Hats off to Millikan though, they had us on our heels so many times and we just found someway to pull it out.”
Jai Smith and Jaheim Hunt combined for 374 yards on the night and Hunt was happy he was able to be back on the field after missing last week’s game.
“I told the team that I would make it up to them,” Hunt said. “And we were able to do that and pull this one out.”
Millikan (2-6, 1-3) gave Compton all it could handle with the duo of senior Qeanu Campbell-Caldwell and junior Ezavier Staples who connected for touchdowns of 49 and 31 yards. Campbell-Caldwell finished the game with 249 yards and three touchdowns and one interception.
The difference in the game was Millikan four turnovers including two fumbles, one interception and a pooch kick that Compton recovered.
Compton will be back in action when the Tarbabes host Poly and Millikan will be on a bye.
