Football: Mater Dei dominates in 38-18 win over Corona Centennial
Monarchs’ defense comes through
Controlling the line of scrimmage on offense and defense, Santa Ana Mater Dei served notice on Saturday night that it can be a physical, dangerous team with a 38-18 victory over Corona Centennial at Mission Viejo.
Senior Jack Lowary, making his first varsity start at quarterback, effectively managed the Monarchs’ offense. He completed 16 of 27 passes for 203 yards and one touchdown. The Monarchs ran the ball with a large collection of running backs, including Brandon LaMarche, Nick Hutson and Noah Delgadillo.
Malik McMorris was tough to stop on the defensive line. Ben Humphreys contributed on offense and defense. Five different Mater Dei players scored touchdowns.
The Monarchs opened a 28-0 lead. Centennial closed to 28-12 but never got into a rhythm to threaten the Monarchs while rotating quarterbacks Anthony Catalano and Nate Ketteringham in the first half. Jayon McKinley caught eight passes for 104 yards for Centennial.
“It’s tough to start the year against a team like that,” Centennial Coach Matt Logan said.
Centennial, known for its running game, struggled to gain yards. JJ Taylor finished with 75 yards and scored a touchdown in the fourth quarter on a 23-yard run.
In a nonleague game in San Diego, Helix defeated St. Bonaventure, 24-20.
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