Ventura College (1-1) had high hopes on its season opener after coming off a 500 season when it faced off against number six seeded Long Beach College. However, their hopes were diminished after Long Beach jumped out to a 26-0 halftime lead. The first half featured star Long Beach quarterback Alex Aispuro who threw for three touchdown passes and then ran for the most exciting touchdown of the half. The Pirates of Ventura however, were down but they showed resilience as they scored a touchdown in the third quarter to put them on the board. Sophomore quarterback Brandon Bishop-Parise threw a perfectly placed pass to receiver Charles Dillon to finally break into the end zone.

Long Beach then added four more touchdowns to finally put the game out of reach, which led to the final score of 62-17. Ventura’s main problem in the game was their turnovers. There was four fumbles and two interceptions, many of them leading to scores. ” To improve for the next game we need to reduce our turnovers and penalties,” said Ventura Coach Terry Morris. Despite the look of the score the Pirate defense had a good game standing their ground.

Despite their loss there is still high hopes for the Pirates. They faced a team with a much higher seed and they can only improve on their first game. They bring a young team to the field this year and as they gain experience throughout the season they will certainly have better showings throughout the year.

The Pirates quickly rebounded from their loss in the first week of the season with a crushing blow to Golden West College of Costa Mesa 33-13. The turnovers and penalties that plagued Ventura in the first game diminished aiding them to a 20-6 halftime lead. Ventura’s charge was led by quarterback Brandon Bishop-Parise who threw for three scores in the first half almost putting the game out of reach. Receiver Charles Dillon also had a great first half, catching three passes for over 100 yards. Esteban Reveles anchored the Pirate defense by having two of the three sacks in the game.

Ventura College showed great improvement from their first game. They went from allowing 62 points in the first week to a measly 13 in the second. Their offense flourished as well scoring a respectable 33 points. Ventura will try to continue their great play on Saturday, Sept. 13 at home against top opponent College of the Canyons.