Sultans impressive in opening night win

By Ramon Scott
Updated: August 25, 2024

Santana's Aiden Thornton and Tanner Stacks.

2024 EAST COUNTY PREP FOOTBALL

SANTANA 20, CANYON HILLS 7

EastCountySports.com

TIERRASANTA — The Santana Sultans have a defense that is predominantly made up of underclassmen.

If Friday night’s performance against the host Canyon Hills Rattlers is any indication, the Sultans should have a stout defense this season and for the next few seasons, as well.

Sultan senior Kaedyn Hallman scored three touchdowns, helping Santana to a 20-7 win over the Rattlers to make sure that defense was rewarded for their efforts.

Junior Jordyn Gillissie and freshman Julian Mayers had sacks for Santana, while junior Maddox Esoo had an interception as the Sultans stymied Canyon Hills for a second consecutive season-opener.

Hallman had a 65-yard touchdown run for the Sultans. He also holds down the punting and return duties for Santana.

Santana led 14-7 at halftime. Hallman scored his third touchdown in the fourth quarter.

Senior Aiden Thornton had six solo tackles, including two for loss, bolstering the efforts of the Sultans’ underclass group.

Junior Cohen Waider had eight total tackles, while junior Xander Bennett added seven total tackles for the Sultans.