LONG BEACH, CA - In an electrifying season opener, Millikan High School's football team fell short in a 69-68 loss to Downey High School. Despite the narrow defeat, senior running back Anthony League delivered a standout performance that set the tone for his season.
League demonstrated his versatility and power throughout the game, accumulating an impressive 258 yards on 27 carries and finding the end zone four times. His performance was particularly noteworthy in the second half, where he gained 180 yards and scored all four of his touchdowns.
Millikan head coach Romeo Pellum commented on League's impact, "Anthony's performance tonight was nothing short of extraordinary. His ability to consistently break tackles and find the end zone kept us in the game until the very end. This is the kind of effort we expect from him as a senior leader on our team."
The game, which now stands as the 13th highest-scoring high school football game in California history, showcased both teams' offensive prowess. League's contributions were crucial in keeping Millikan competitive throughout the back-and-forth contest.
Despite the loss, League's performance set a high bar for the season ahead. His four-touchdown game demonstrated his potential to be a game-changing force for Millikan as they look to compete for the Moore League title.
The Rams' offensive line also deserves credit for their role in League's success, consistently creating opportunities for the senior running back to showcase his skills. Their performance bodes well for Millikan's ground game as they progress through their schedule.
The high-scoring affair began with Downey taking an early lead, but Millikan quickly responded, setting the tone for a night of offensive fireworks. League's first touchdown came in the second quarter, igniting a scoring spree that would continue throughout the game.
As the second half began, League shifted into high gear. His ability to find gaps in the defense and break tackles became increasingly evident. On multiple occasions, League turned what appeared to be short gains into long, momentum-shifting runs.
One of the most memorable moments came late in the fourth quarter when League broke free for a 68-yard touchdown run, showcasing his speed and field vision. This play not only brought Millikan within striking distance but also energized the home crowd.
League's performance was not limited to just running the ball. He also contributed in the passing game, serving as a reliable outlet for quarterback JP Miholoski. This versatility kept the Downey defense off-balance throughout the night.
The senior running back's endurance was equally impressive. Despite carrying the ball 27 times, League showed no signs of fatigue in the game's final minutes, continuing to fight for extra yards on every touch.
Coach Pellum also noted the impact of League's performance on his teammates, "Anthony's effort tonight inspired the entire team. Even when we were down, his relentless running gave us the belief that we could come back. That kind of leadership is invaluable."
While the loss was disappointing for Millikan, League's performance provided a silver lining and a glimpse of what could be a special season for the senior. His ability to produce at such a high level against a strong Downey team suggests that he will be a force to be reckoned with in the Moore League.
Looking ahead, Millikan will aim to build on the positive aspects of this game, particularly League's dominant rushing performance, as they prepare for their upcoming non-league matchup against Upland High School. The team's ability to put up 68 points, largely on the back of League's efforts, indicates that their offense will be a formidable challenge for any opponent this season.
Millikan High School, established in 1956, has a rich tradition of academic and athletic excellence. The school's football program, under the leadership of Coach Romeo Pellum, continues to be a strong contender in the Moore League and broader Southern California high school football landscape.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tuy0JFGcTqA&t=2s
For more information about Anthony League and to follow his athletic journey, please visit http://anthonyleague.com or contact William / Tashara League at 714-341-9831 or only1league@icloud.com.
###
For more information about Anthony League, contact the company here:
Anthony League
William / Tashara League
7143419831
only1league@icloud.com
Millikan High School 600, 2800 Snowden Ave, Long Beach, CA 90815