Inside the Game: Madera Coyotes 30, Mission Oak Hawks 24

Players of the game: Jayson Regua proved to be the difference against the visiting Hawks. Not only was he a handful on the ground, but his receiving ability proved dangerous for the visitors. Regua gained more than 90 yards combined in the first half and more than 100 yards for the game. His touchdown run in the first quarter put his team on the right path and they stuck with it for the win.

Linebacker Michael Brocchini was a solid defensive contributor all game long. Whether it was sticking his head into gang tackles or pumping up the crowd on third downs. His presence on the Coyote defense was noticeable. He had more than six tackles and a pass break up but his energy was his biggest contribution.

Unsung heroes of the game: Breesa Mesa, the sophomore kicker brought the crowd to their feet whenever she stepped onto the field. Although she’s had a hiccup here and there, the Coyote faithful and team have had her back. Her extra point and field goal conversion proved to be decisive after the Hawks made a comeback.

Yosef Fares, although it’s the players who get the attention after a win, coach Fares deserves just as much praise. After enduring a tumultuous 2016 season, Fares and the Coyotes proved that last season was the past. His ability to keep his players in the game mentally after three plays over 70 yards gashed the Coyotes for touchdowns was impressive to say the least. With Fares as their fearless leader, the problems of the past should stay that way.

Play of the game: Joziah Velazquez gets the play of the game with an incredible kickoff return that was unable to make it all the way into the end zone. Not only was his return important in terms of yardage, but it was the exact spark the Coyotes needed to take the game back and ultimately beat the Mission Oak Hawks.

Drive of the game: After coming off a loss in their home opener, it was important for the Coyotes to get back on track. With a touchdown by Jayson Regua to open the game, the team established themselves as a confident and strong football team. They overcame a bad play or two but stuck it in the end zone to give the crowd something to cheer about.