Peoria wide receiver David Rojas returned the first kickoff of the rivalry game for 40 yards.
Cactus' defense made their mark in the contest almost immediately. After the 41-yard return, senior linebacker Jordan Marrufo jumped senior quarterback Dominic Kramer’s pass for an interception on the first play from scrimmage.
The tone set early by the Cobras continued throughout the game, as they went on to beat Peoria 48-14 on Sept. 19 at Peoria.
“I thought our kids were ready to play tonight,” Cactus Coach Brian Belles said. “I think we executed. We got to clean up some penalties, but I thought our defense flew around.”
Peoria running backs Cristian Zarate and Javon Bell, who had averaged 175 yards per game, were held to 98.
Although Bell was able to make a few big plays, Zarate was stifl