McDonald’s Pass Helps Esperanza Top Westminster

Despite a badly bruised abdomen that he suffered on a play late in the first half, Esperanza High School quarterback Keith McDonald re-entered the game in the second half to spark his team to a 28-21 victory over Westminster at Valencia High Thursday night.

McDonald’s 43-yard touchdown pass to wingback Jarod Smith with 45 seconds left in the game clinched the victory for Esperanza (2-1) in the nonleague game.

It looked as if the game might end in a tie after Westminster running back Vance Senteno dove across from one yard out and the Lions were successful on a two-point conversion to tie the score at 21-21 with 1:47 left in the game.

Westminster quarterback John Shipp had brought the team to within 8 points with a two-yard sneak earlier in the quarter.

Esperanza had a 14-7 lead at the half, largely due to the tandem of McDonald (11 of 20 for 200 yards) and tight end Reid Pullen (four receptions for 94 yards). McDonald and Pullen hooked up on scoring plays of 24 and 13 yards to forge Esperanza’s lead.

Westminster (0-3) knotted the score at 7-7 on a freakish play in the second quarter. Kicker Ken Scott was lined up for a 30-yard field goal attempt, but his kick was blocked and bounced back right into the hands of Shipp, the holder. Shipp rolled out and threaded a 14-yard TD pass to Donald Bell across the middle.

Esperanza all-purpose back Smith, a junior, ended with 78 yards rushing and 58 yards receiving.