PREP FOOTBALL : Empire League

Katella 29, Kennedy 19--Mark Mitzel returned a fumble 85 yards for a touchdown on the final play to clinch the victory before 1,850 in Anaheim’s Handel Stadium.

Kennedy had driven 64 yards in the final three minutes, with the aid of a pass interference penalty, and was at the Knights’ two-yard line with one second left. But on fourth and goal, Irish running back John Christensen lost the ball on a lateral. Mitzel grabbed it in midair at the 15 and ran untouched for the touchdown.

A penalty flag was thrown because Katella players streamed onto the field to celebrate before Mitzel had crossed the goal line, but the touchdown was allowed to stand.

Earlier in the final quarter, Rich Milne kicked a 36-yard field goal to give the Irish (0-4, 0-7) a 19-16 lead. But Katella (1-3, 2-5) rallied. The Knights drove 80 yards in 13 plays, with Todd Muzi capping the drive with an 11-yard touchdown run. Muzi finished with 116 yards in 15 carries.

Wade Farley returned an interception 12 yards for a touchdown to open the scoring for the Knights. Mike Farrell returned the kickoff opening the second half 92 yards for a touchdown to account for Katella’s other score.

Christensen led the Irish offense with 89 yards and 2 touchdowns in 25 carries.