Looking to stay in first in the Mission Valley League standings, the EL Monte Lions went right to work against the visiting Gabrielino Eagles by scoring on their first four drives of the game. Big plays for long gains and the efficient sped up offense gave the Eagles grief from the outset. Building a lead 27-7 at the first break, the Lions cruised to a 48-28 victory, leaving them tied with Arroyo at the top of the league standings. The Lions hurry-up, no-huddle offense compiled 511 yards but their defense proved a bit porous, giving up 350 yards to Gabrielino.

The Lions took the opening kickoff and on the fourth play from scrimmage, Lions quarterback, Brandon Martinez scampered 46 yards for a score. After a three and out, the Eagles punted the ball back to the Lions. The drive took 10 plays, but the result was the same as Martinez ran it in again, this time from just the three yard-line. The APT was no good and with just half way through the quarter, it was a 13-0 game. Another punt to the Lions after three offensive plays, El Monte used just a two play drive and scored on a 21 yard pass from Martinez Juan Ceballos and the Eagles were down 20-0. GHS fumbled, the Lions recovered and Martinez took advantage again with a pass on the next play to Josh Wu for 24 yards and another score. Gabrielino found themselves down 27-0 with 3:17 remaining in the opening quarter.

Gabrielino go busy and tried to get close, but the Eagles and Lions traded scores for the rest of the evening. The Eagles were led by three Juniors. Bryan Vargas (111 yards rushing and 4 catches for 51 yards, one for a touchdown), quarterback Mark Winchell (19-32 for 227 yards, two touchdowns and one interception) and Cameryn Dennis-Matthews (9 catches, two for touchdowns and 92 yards) worked hard all night but could not overcome the large, early deficit.

The Lions were command by QB Martinez who completed just 9 passes, two for touchdowns and 218 yards. He also ran for four more scored, gaining 152 yards in nine carries. Senior Frank Lopez carried the ball 14 more times, compiling 90 yards.

Next week Gabrielino (0-3, 3-5) travels to Arroyo facing the 7-1 Knights and are undefeated in league play. The Lions will take on South El Monte who have a 2-1 league record and are 6-2 overall. Looking ahead, their final game will be at Arroyo, and will probably determine who will wear the league crown.