Soledad football

Soledad Aztecs (8-3, 6-1)
 Coming off a share of the programs first Mission Trail Athletic League title, a single-season school record for wins, and consecutive wins, ‘repeat the feat’ is the battle cry in Soledad.
 If anything the Aztecs are even hungrier after getting a taste of capturing a title. What has continued to elude them is a postseason win -- 0-3 in three trips.
 "We finally earned the respect we deserved,'' Soledad linebacker Andrew Hernandez said. "But last year is over. We have a lot to surpass. We have a lot to prove to ourselves.''
 All three of Soledad’s losses last season came against programs that won 10 or more games. Defense was the strength of the program, allowing under 13 points a game.
 The core of that unit -- which allowed just 12 points in the second quarter all season -- is back in tact with the return of all-league defensive linemen Daniel Contawe and Hernandez.
 Hernandez put together a season to remember last year with 12 sacks and 100 tackles while Contawe was a menace in the trenches on both sides of the ball.
 The emergence of sophomore Emmanuel Ortega in the backfield last year changed the offense as he rushed for over 1,000 yards, most of it in the final six games of the season.
 "It did surprise me. I didn't expect to make varsity, let alone start,'' Ortega said. "I've got a bigger and better line to run behind this year.''
 Ortega will make the transition a little easier for who ever Soledad puts behind center at quarterback.
 Last season it was efficient in throwing the ball, keeping opponents from stacking nine in the box.
 I don’t see complacency setting in after last fall’s title run. Not with Seaside and Salinas to open its non-league season against.
 Soledad was just 2-2 after its first four games last season, outscored 69-62. What followed was a six game winning streak in which it outscored opponents 149-52, holding Carmel to three points.
 "Our work ethic was a reflection of our season,'' Soledad coach Frankie Berlanga said. "We're going to continue to prepare like we've always prepared.''
 Defense set the tone last season, holding four teams without an offensive touchdown. A little more balance on offense could propel Soledad to another title.