Fullerton makes statement in opening victory

Orange County Register

09.06.09

By Kenny Connolly

FULLERTON The opener for the Fullerton College football team Saturday night served several different purposes for individual players and the team as a whole.

    For starting running back Kenny Turner, it was a chance to return from a career threatening injury.

    For quarterback Darius Banks, it was a college football debut.

    But most important, as a team, the Hornets sent a message that they are a force to be reckoned with, overwhelming Compton, 41-6, in a nonconference game at Fullerton District Stadium.

    Turner, penciled in as the Hornets’ starting running back a year ago, tore two knee ligaments on the first play from scrimmage.

    “It felt great to get back out here,” Turner said. “It took a long time and a lot of rehabbing, but the hard work paid off.”

    The freshman demonstrated his recovery, eluding several defenders en route to a 9-yard touchdown run that gave the Hornets a 7-0 lead with just over six minutes remaining in the first quarter.

    “I wasn’t supposed to be able to play again, so this is well appreciated,” said Turner, who finished with 50 yards on 10 carries, all coming in the first half.

    The touchdown proved to be all the Fullerton defense needed.

    The Hornets surrendered just 54 yards of offense to the Tartars, who ran a total of 50 plays.

    “Any time you hold a team to under 200 yards you are doing a great job,” Fullerton coach Tim Byrnes said. “I am proud of the kids for the way they took the game and finished it off.”

    A 41-yard interception return by Tra Sumler gave the Hornets a 35-0 lead with 11:13 remaining in the second quarter.

    Banks delivered the clinching blow, connecting with an open Thomas Clarkson in the end zone, making the score 41-0 at the half.

    “It’s been two years since I played a meaningful game,” said Banks, a transfer from Eastern Washington University. “It was exciting to get back on the field and I look forward to what’s to come.”

    Banks completed 7 of 11 passes for 83 yards and a touchdown.