ANDRELTON SIMMONS hit a three-run home run that was decisive in the Angels’ 7-6 win over Houston Saturday night.

Andrelton Simmons hit a three-run home run in the bottom of the eighth inning to lift the Los Angeles Angels to a much-needed 7-6 win over the Houston Astros in Anaheim on Saturday night.

The win improved the Halos’ record to 66-64 and put them into a tie for second place in the American League West with the Seattle Mariners. It also moved them to within a half-game of the second AL wild card berth.

Simmons’ homer capped a late rally by the Angels to overcome an early 6-1 deficit. They scored two runs in the seventh and four in the eighth. Simmons had two hits – a double and the home run – scored two runs and had three RBIs. Kole Calhoun did well at bat as well, with three hits, including a solo home run.

Chargers edge Rams, 21-19, in “Fight for LA”

In the first meeting between two teams that will eventually share a stadium in Inglewood, the Los Angeles Chargers (1-2) rolled up an early 21-0 lead and hung on to defeat the Los Angeles Rams (1-2) in a pre-season game at the Coliseum.

Philip Rivers and an opportunistic Charger defense built the big edge for the “visitors,” and Ram quarterback Jared Goff didn’t look as sharp as did against the Raiders last week, completing five of eight passes for 56 yards and an interception which was returned for a touchdown. He was also stripped of the ball on another play that was returned for a score.

But backup Sean Mannion (214 yards) had a good outing, throwing for one touchdown and leading the team to three field goals. But it was a 33-yard miss by Travis Coons late in the fourth quarter that was the difference in the game.

Vikings catch fire late in 27-10 win

The Marina High Vikings took their time getting their offense going Saturday night, but when they did they rolled past Dana Hills 27-10 in the season opener at Westminster High School.

Trailing 10-6 after three quarters, the Vikes rallied for three touchdowns to post the win. Marina will be in action next Thursday, Aug. 31 hosting Torrance High at WHS.