(John Harris) finished with three interceptions as CSM held off host West Valley 34-21 in a spirited non-conference game that was much closer than the final score indicated.

CSM coach Larry Owens said they built the defense this season around Maka, a fierce outside linebacker and excellent athlete who transferred to CSM.

Unlike professional football, college football teams don’t have three or four exhibition games to prepare for the season.

San Mateo completely shutdown powerful American River, which had not lost a regular season game since 2004.