The Pahrump Valley High School Trojans fought through a tense, penalty-heavy battle on the road Friday, October 24, to earn a 14–6 victory over the Boulder City Eagles. The matchup tested the Trojans’ composure and grit as they overcame questionable calls, heated moments on the field and mounting frustration from both sidelines to close out their regular season with a statement win.
Pahrump’s defense came ready from the opening drive, halting Boulder City’s first possession and setting up solid field position for the offense. Quarterback Kayne Horibe and running back Austin Alvarez worked to establish the ground game early, with short gains moving the ball methodically downfield. After a defensive stand deep in Trojan territory that ended with Ashton McClard snagging a critical interception in the end zone, Pahrump’s offense seized the momentum.
With 1:21 left in the first quarter, Horibe connected with Angel Ware on a quick pass that turned into a 55-yard dash to the end zone. Josh Slusher’s extra point made it 7–0 Trojans.
Boulder City responded with several strong possessions in the second quarter but found themselves stifled by Pahrump’s defensive unit, anchored by Billy Sparks, Paul Walker, and Angel Ware. The Eagles settled for a field goal midway through the second, trimming the lead to 7–3. The game grew increasingly chippy, with tempers flaring on both sides. Two Boulder City players were ejected for personal fouls after late hits on Horibe, while the Trojans also faced multiple drive-stalling penalties. Despite the chaos, Pahrump held its composure and maintained the lead heading into halftime.
The third quarter continued the defensive struggle, as both teams traded punts and flags filled the air. Pahrump’s defense remained unrelenting, with Sparks and Alvarez making key stops and Lucas Gavenda breaking up passes in critical moments. Boulder City managed another field goal early in the fourth to close within one point, 7–6.
Refusing to back down, Pahrump’s offense regrouped. Alvarez broke loose on a series of hard-fought runs, powering the Trojans into scoring position. Horibe capped the drive with a quarterback sneak for a touchdown with 6:49 remaining, and Slusher split the uprights for a 14–6 lead.
Moments later, Ryan Hamlin intercepted an Eagle pass to shut down Boulder City’s momentum. Though a late fumble in the end zone gave the Eagles a glimmer of hope, the Trojans’ defense once again stood tall, forcing turnovers on downs and controlling the clock until the final whistle.
Defensive Coordinator Mike Colucci praised his players’ discipline and effort: “I was pleased with the focus and effort our boys played with in defense to keep us in the game. It was the first time our defense has played four solid quarters this season. We hope to build off this effort so we can be peaking at the right time! We’re excited for the playoffs! It should be a great environment on Friday night!”
Offensive Coordinator Toby Henry echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the team’s resilience. “Our boys played a great game. It was a great road conference win,” Henry said. “I’m proud of our team to get a home playoff game for the second year in a row. We are excited to game plan this week. It’s going to be a great atmosphere this Thursday in Pahrump.”
With the victory and a home playoff game scheduled for this Thursday, October 30th at 6p.m., the Trojans carry valuable momentum into the postseason—battle-tested, unified, and ready for what comes next.
