The Fresno City College Rams once again displayed their swarming defense and quick striking offense to open up conference play with their first win in the conference Saturday afternoon. The Rams defeated Sierra College 23-16 to extend their record to 5-1.

The game started off pretty formidable for Sierra College with a 22-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Myles McKee to wide receiver Frank Gomes on a 71-yard drive. The extra point however was missed and at the end of the first quarter Sierra led the Rams 6-0.

In the second quarter, the Rams managed to score all of their 23 points. First a field goal from kicker Trevor Samson cut the Rams deficit to 3-6. A few drives later Rams quarterback Trey Mitchell tossed a 25-yard deep ball to wide receiver Deon Hicks to give the Rams their first lead of the game at 9-6.

Rams running back Oliver Cyprian chipped in with a 6-yard rushing touchdown of his own with 9:53 left to go in the second quarter to push the Rams lead to 16-6. The scoring onslaught was capped off when defensive back Donnell Vercher returned a 41-yard interception for a touchdown with 8:39 to go in the second quarter to take a 23-6 lead.

That would be all the scoring the Rams would do for the rest of the game. Receiver Anthony Yancy had two receptions for a total of 48 yards. He was concerned that the Rams did not score in the second half.

“I was concerned but I knew the defense was going to step up and help us win,” he said.

The Rams’ defense forced six turnovers, sacked the Sierra quarterback three times and also caused five interceptions. Defensive Back Donnell Vercher had four of the five interceptions. He also returned one interception for a touchdown.