SRJC Bear Cubs fall to San Joaquin Delta College 27-17

San Joaquin Delta College scored 10 unanswered points in the fourth quarter while coming from behind to defeat host Santa Rosa JC, 27-17, Saturday night in the opener for both teams.

The Mustangs rallied after the Bear Cubs scored early in the third quarter while taking a 17-14 lead. Joel Chavez then kicked a field goal to bring Delta even heading to the final period.

A field goal by Chavez and a 5-yard touchdown run by Evan Owens provided Delta with the victory margin.

SRJC coach Lenny Wagner was disappointed with the way his team played.

“We had so many opportunities and didn’t take advantage,” he said. “We dropped balls, missed assignments and committed too many penalties.”

Meanwhile, Mustangs coach Gary Barlow left Santa Rosa feeling pretty good about his team.

“I’m happy with the way we finished,” he said. “Being the first game, both teams could’ve done things better but that’s to be expected.

“Our defense was quick and did a good job of attacking. I was pleased with the way we contained the Santa Rosa offense.

“I’m really happy for our guys. We put our freshmen players into the fire and they responded. The team found a way to get a road victory.”

Last year, the schools played in Stockton and the Bear Cubs left town with a 31-21 victory over the Mustangs.