MATTAWA - For a team that's rebuilding, Wahluke High School has gotten off to a good start in football.

After a narrow 17-14 loss on the road to loaded White Swan, the Warriors started the home campaign last Friday with a 31-7 victory over Mabton.

"Overall, our team came out focused and played a smart and tough football game," coach Brycen Bye said. "We ran the ball effectively and had great success running the fly sweep."

The Warriors will start the South Central A Conference East slate this Friday against Burbank at Burbank.

Jaime Jimenez stood out offensively, running for 113 yards on 21 carries. Martin Tello ran the ball eight times for 58 yards. The offensive line of Jonah Gallacci, Juan Mendoza, Jack Yorgesen, Gilberto Mejia, and Joel Salas paved the way.

Quarterback Jose Madrigal passed the ball only five times times but completed four of his aerials, including one for a key third down conversion.

Kicker Alan Caro had an excellent game. He made a 32-yard field goal, each of his PAT attempts, and kicked two touchbacks. He is a junior and the goalie on the soccer team.

The Warriors held Mabton to 150 total yards. The defensive line and linebackers made numerous big plays. Dario Prudente stood out. He had several tackles for loss and a fumble recovery.

"I was pleased that each player made a big play during the game," Bye said. "It was a true team victory."

The loss to White Swan was a surprise because it was so close. The Warriors had 15 first-time varsity players starting, and White Swan was a veteran state playoff team

"I am very proud of the way the our team played," Bye said.

The Warrior defense was stout, holding White Swan to minus-14 rushing yards on 20 attempts.

"We gave up two big plays (a 76 and 38 yard touchdown pass), and those hurt us," Bye said.

Offensively, Jimenez played the best game of his career. He had 126 yards on 27 carries.

"It was a very tough game to lose, and it was a hard-fought game that we had chances to win," Bye said. "However, I am extremely proud of the way we battled each play and never gave up until the clock hit double zeros."