By NATHAN MIXTER Sports Editor
Salinas – At least on paper, it may be the easiest game of the season. But that’s on paper.
San Benito (2-1-1) will face Alvarez in the last game of the preseason tonight at the Salinas Sports Complex. Alvarez has been playing its home games at Salinas High’s field or at the Complex this year while turf is being installed.
The Eagles (1-2) lost by a combined 48-3 in their first two games this season against Salinas and upstart Live Oak. But Alvarez rebounded last week to defeat Wilson Prep 42-8. Five of the six touchdowns scored came on the ground.
The Haybalers are taking nothing lightly.
“We just got to go out there strong and play mistake-free football,” said Baler coach Chris Cameron. “We’re starting to come of age. We got to come out strong and take it to these guys right away.”
San Benito, which is coming in the healthiest it has been all season, is pumped up after stunning Bellarmine last week, 17-7.
The Balers moved up two spots from last week’s top 15 Central Coast Section teams to the No. 9 spot behind Gilroy.
San Benito place kicker Dru Blake didn’t practice on Wednesday because of muscle tightness. Punter Art Esparza may handle the field goal and PAT duties, Cameron said. Running back Chris Brigantino, who is showing livestock at the fair this week, is cleared to play after suffering a minor injury in a game.
