Moreno Valley High Shuts Out Eisenhower 14–0 in Season Opener

The season couldn’t have started any better for the Moreno Valley High School Vikings, as they stormed into their opener Friday night with a commanding 14–0 shutout victory over Eisenhower. From the opening kickoff, the Vikings set the tone. Quarterback Syree Matthews connected with wide receiver Johnny Robinson on a jaw-dropping 83-yard touchdown, electrifying the crowd and proving the offseason work paid off. The early score gave Moreno Valley a lead they never surrendered. Running back Trevon Williams kept the momentum rolling in the second quarter, powering in from one yard out. Kicker Efrain Hernandez was automatic, drilling both PATs for a 14-point cushion by halftime. Matthews finished his night efficient and sharp: 10-for-18 for 179 yards and one touchdown, despite playing only one half. Robinson had a breakout performance, hauling in 3 catches for 111 yards, including the highlight 83-yard score that stunned the stadium. Defensively, the Vikings were impenetrable, forcing Eisenhower into punts, turnovers on downs, and missed chances. The Eagles never found the end zone, and every possession became a test of will. It was a complete team victory, and the community that filled the stands could feel that something special was beginning.

What stood out most on opening night was how polished the Vikings looked in every phase of the game. Special teams handled their assignments, the defense played with a relentless edge, and the offense executed with poise. Matthews showed maturity beyond his years in the pocket, making smart throws and trusting his receivers. Robinson’s speed and hands gave the Eisenhower defense problems all night, while Williams added a powerful run game to keep the offense balanced. Yet, the story wasn’t just individual highlights—it was how seamlessly Moreno Valley operated as one unit. This didn’t look like a team finding its way in Week One; it looked like a program that had bought into a vision and a culture. Head Coach Benitez has been preaching discipline, consistency, and preparation since the offseason, and Friday night was proof those words had taken root. The players trusted each other, played their roles, and delivered a performance that has already raised expectations for the season.After the game, Coach Benitez gave credit where it belonged: to his players and their collective effort. “Ultimately, I’m proud of my football team starting off the season 1–0 and I’m thankful for that,” he said. “We’ve got a lot of work to do to get to where we want to be, but overall we’re happy with where we’re at and where we’re moving towards.” Those words reflect the heart of his coaching philosophy—celebrate the wins, but never settle. For Benitez, the journey matters as much as the scoreboard.Looking ahead, the Vikings now turn their focus to Week Two with momentum, confidence, and the support of a community that has rallied behind them. This win wasn’t just about beating Eisenhower—it was about making a statement. Moreno Valley showed it has the talent, the discipline, and the leadership to contend this season. The opener was only one game, but it carried the weight of something larger: a program on the rise. If Friday night was any indication, the best is yet to come.