Defense keys Liberty victory

Tyler Takeda/The Madera Tribune

Liberty tight end Austin Graham makes a grab during a touchdown reception in Friday’s win over Dos Palos. Graham had three catches for 77 yards with a pair of touchdowns, and also had two quarterback sacks. 

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DOS PALOS — Last year, the Liberty Hawks football team was embarrassed in a 40-point loss to the Dos Palos Broncos. This year, the Hawks made sure that wasn’t going to happen, and dominated the Broncos for a 35-26 victory Friday night. 

The Hawks out gained the Broncos 407-239, including out-rushing the Broncos 289-33. The Hawks opened this season with three straight wins after opening last season with three straight defeats. 

The Liberty defense was the key. Defensive coordinator Tyler Melvin had the Hawks in the right position. The defense forced three interceptions and recovered two lateral fumbles that led to 60 yards loss by the Broncos.