A strong second half performance led by the defense helped the Comets improve their record to 5-2 this season with a 20-10 win over the Orange Coast Pirates. Palomar’s offense was stifled in the first half by the visiting Pirates on Saturday, with each of their first six drives ending in a punt. Orange Coast was able to score in their first two possessions to put the score at 10-0 going into halftime.

The Comet’s defense started the second half impressively forcing two punts before intercepting Orange Coast QB Kody Whitaker. Sophomore linebacker Toeafua Amu picked the pass and returned it 42 yards for the touchdown to bring the Comet’s back into the contest. The ensuing drive for the Pirates also ended with a turnover when Palomar’s Malohi Makihele intercepted a pass in the redzone and returned it 32 yards. The Palomar offense capitalized on the momentum swing as QB Brett Hollingsworth completed five passes as part of a quick eight play, 78 yard scoring drive. A 12 yard pass connection between Hollingsworth and receiver M.J. Bailey gave the Comets their first lead of the night at 14-10 with three minutes remaining in the third quarter. The Comets and Pirates exchanged possession via interceptions in each opening fourth quarter drives before a Palomar touchdown put the game away. A 40 yard pass from Hollingsworth to receiver Wayne Ganan gave the Comet’s a 10 point lead with seven minutes remaining in the game. Whitaker was hassled all game by the Comets defense, getting sacked seven times.

Palomar now must wait until November 1st to continue their three game win streak when they travel to Golden West College to face the 4-2 Rustlers.