The Lancers opened the 2026‑27 campaign on a rainy Friday night, facing off against the Pirates of Paramount. The final tally read 12‑7 in favor of Lakewood, but the contest was far from a walk in the park.
Early in the first quarter the offense sputtered, failing to move the ball past the 20‑yard line. Momentum shifted when a miscommunication in the Pirates’ backfield resulted in a safety, giving Lakewood a 2‑0 edge.
Defensive pride fuels the Lancers
Defensively, Lakewood’s unit kept the Pirates to a single touchdown. Senior captain Mario Morales praised the group’s physicality, noting that the defense’s pride was evident on every snap.
The turning point arrived late in the fourth quarter. A crisp 55‑yard strike from quarterback Aidan Kautsky found receiver Jayden Moore, who sprinted down the sideline and set up Thales Nguyen’s decisive 4‑yard rush into the end zone.
Statistically, the Lancers’ skill players posted solid numbers. Moore finished with 87 receiving yards, while Nguyen added 59 rushing yards to go along with his game‑winning score.
Looking ahead, Lakewood will travel to face Ventura at John Ford Stadium next Friday, hoping to build on the early‑season momentum.