WEST JORDAN — West Jordan finally got the chance to play at home on Friday night after field renovations forced the team to play each of its previous games on the road.
The Jaguars celebrated their home opener with late homecoming festivities, but Hunter's defense spoiled the party.
The Wolverines forced six turnovers while cruising to a 20-0 win in Region 3 play. Hunter improved to 2-1 in league play, while the Jaguars dropped to 0-3.
"Defense has carried us all year,' said Hunter coach Dustin Pearce. "They've been consistent. West Jordan did some nice things, but when they got in the red zone we were tough.'
An interception by Equasi Tavo in the first quarter seemingly opened the flood gates for the Wolverines. His pick set up Hunter's first score of the game, a 32-yard field goal by Dallon Lund, and West Jordan couldn't seem to take care of the ball following the play.
Rico Montoya recovered a fumble on the ensuing kickoff and later returned an interception for a touchdown. Fui Kinikini also intercepted a West Jordan pass.
Montoya's touchdown came early in the third quarter and put the Wolverines up 20-0.
"It just came right at me,' said Montoya, who credited defensive coordinator Brandon Burt and secondary coach Terry Cummings for having him in the right position. "I knew it was coming and I just made the play.'
Tavo scored on a 55-yard run in the second quarter to give Hunter a 13-0 lead. He rushed for 85 yards on 11 carries. Mone Moungaloa had 83 yards on 19 carries for the Wolverines.
Hunter's offense didn't click on all cylinders, but it did enough to help the team win the game.
"You can't complain when you get wins,' Pearce said. "They're so hard to come by, especially in this region. It's competitive. It's a very well-coached region, in my opinion. It is what it is.'
Hunter withstood an impressive effort by West Jordan fullback Damien Maestes, who rushed for 151 yards on 27 carries. He gained 75 yards on a second-quarter drive that took more than five minutes off the clock. The drive, however, ended with a turnover.
Next up for Hunter is a tough matchup with Bingham on Wednesday night. The Wolverines are the underdogs, but their confidence is growing and they expect to give the Miners a challenge.
"Every win gives us more and more and confidence,' Montoya said.
E-mail: aaragon@desnews.com