Bernalillo handles business in Kirtland, shutout over Broncos 42-0

KIRTLAND — If you wrote off the Spartans after their district-opening loss to Moriarty two weeks ago, you may want to rethink your statement.

In a road matchup against Kirtland Central, Bernalillo blanked the Broncos 42-0 to move to 5-1 overall and 2-1 in 4A. Friday’s shutout gives the Spartans back-to-back wins, outscoring their opponents 83-12 in their past two games.

On offense, it was all about the run game for the Spartans. Junior Ulisses Castro ran for two scores on the night, with senior two-way Mario Molinar adding to his impressive season with two rushing touchdowns of his own.

Forty-two points is nothing to skim over, but Bernalillo’s first shutout of the season is definitely the highlight takeaway from the victory. It is the first time the Spartans have allowed zero points since, ironically, Oct. 4, 2024, against Kirtland.

Kirtland quarterback Chance Aspaas was held to 38 yards passing and an interception, one of several turnovers forced by the Spartans on the night. Bernalillo opened the game stonewalling the Bronco offense for back-to-back turnovers on downs to set the tone.

In 4A, there is a logjam at the top. Three teams: Bernalillo, Grants and Bloomfield sit at 5-1 overall, but Grants and Bloomfield hold the advantage at 3-0 in district while the Spartans lurk behind at 2-1. Lucky for the red and silver, they will face both teams in the coming weeks.

First things first: Bernalillo will head back home next week for a matchup against Aztec. Kickoff between the Spartans and Tigers is set for 7 p.m. Oct. 10.

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