Johnson Injured, but La Habra Defense Holds On

HACIENDA HEIGHTS — La Habra High School’s defense held Los Altos to 121 yards in total offense and also scored a touchdown as the Highlanders defeated Los Altos, 12-9, Friday night in a nonleague game at Los Altos High School.

La Habra (2-1) added to a 6-0 lead in the second quarter when defensive back Cody Verdugo picked up Ben Rosales’ fumble and ran it in from 12 yards out with 3 minutes 4 seconds left in the half.

La Habra went for a two-point conversion, but the pass failed and the Highlanders led, 12-0.

La Habra’s defense was the show in the first half, allowing only one first down and 27 yards. The defense’s performance was timely because La Habra lost running back Jason Johnson with a knee injury.

Johnson scored on a five-yard run with 5:46 left in the first half, but was injured on the play.

La Habra replaced Johnson with three backs--Matt Moreno, Mike Dominguez and Bryan Reed--who combined for 137 yards. Moreno led the way with 68 yards in 10 carries.

Los Altos scored on a 28-yard fumble return by defensive back John Weu with 8:35 left in the third quarter. Los Altos scored a safety on a blocked La Habra punt with 9:29 left in the game.