RedHawks lose track of visiting Lions

By Ramon Scott
Updated: August 28, 2026

2026 EAST COUNTY PREP FOOTBALL

Robinson scores three touchdowns, including 91-yard kickoff return, in 46-21 loss to Linfield Christian

Linfield Christian 46, Mountain Empire 21

By Ramon Scott

EastCountySports.com

PINE VALLEY — Mountain Empire stayed within one possession of Linfield Christian throughout the first half Thursday night, but the RedHawks’ limited roster began to take its toll after the break.

Linfield Christian pulled away by scoring the final 20 points and defeated Mountain Empire, 46-21, in a nonleague game.

The RedHawks trailed only 26-21 at halftime after receiving all three of their touchdowns from junior Elisha Robinson.

Robinson rushed 20 times for 73 yards and a touchdown. He caught two passes for 35 yards and another score, then supplied Mountain Empire’s biggest play by returning a kickoff 91 yards for a touchdown.

Robinson finished with 108 yards from scrimmage and 199 all-purpose yards.

Senior quarterback Chance Ross completed 7 of 14 passes for 67 yards and a touchdown, with his longest completion covering 23 yards.

Senior Amar Mahasin, who caught three touchdown passes in Mountain Empire’s opening victory over Hamilton, led the RedHawks with three receptions for 20 yards. Robinson caught the touchdown pass among his two receptions.

Mountain Empire remained competitive through the first two quarters but could not maintain the pace with Linfield Christian during the second half.

“Our small roster got to us in the second half,” Mountain Empire head coach Cameron Keller said. “Completely gassed, but no excuses.”

The loss dropped Mountain Empire to 1-1 following its 56-0 season-opening victory over Hamilton.

Linfield Christian improved to 1-1 after beginning its season with a 25-6 loss to Orange Vista. Orange Vista was ranked 12th this week in the Inland Empire Top 25.

The first half demonstrated that Mountain Empire’s explosive start was not limited to its opening opponent. The RedHawks stayed within five points of a larger Southern Section program before Linfield Christian’s depth ultimately created the separation.