Panthers Come Up Short in 27-23 Thriller Against Moorpark

Chaffey Football put together one of their most competitive performances of the season but came up just short in a 27-23 thriller against Moorpark College on Saturday night at Grigsby Field. Chaffey outgained the Raiders 351 to 269 in total offense, controlled possession for nearly 35 minutes, and forced four interceptions, but late-game execution swung the momentum in Moorpark's favor.

Chaffey took a 3-0 lead in the second quarter on a 38-yard field goal from kicker Mustafa Hnyin. Moments later, quarterback Francisco Villalbazo connected with Yaqiym Halliburton for a 17-yard touchdown strike, putting Chaffey ahead 10-0. The Raiders answered late in the half to close the gap and carried that surge into the third quarter, converting a short field into a touchdown and adding a field goal to take a 17-10 lead.

The Panthers regrouped in the fourth quarter behind quarterback Evan Powell, who ignited a late scoring drive. Powell finished off a 10-play, 89-yard drive with a 9-yard touchdown run, then broke free for a 38-yard score minutes later to push the Panthers back in front, 23-20, with just over two minutes remaining. However, the Raiders responded with a decisive touchdown pass in the final minute to seal the game.

Chaffey showed balance throughout the night. Villalbazo threw 142 yards and a touchdown, while Powell contributed 115 yards passing and 65 yards rushing to go along with his two scores. Brennan White led the receivers with 77 yards, and Halliburton added 53 yards and his second-quarter touchdown. On defense, Jalen Carter intercepted three passes, and William Harper added another, highlighting a defensive backfield generating takeaways throughout the game.

The Panthers will look to bounce back when they travel for their first league game and face No. 6 El Camino College on Saturday, September 20. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:00 p.m.