Although St. Monica has lost five of its first seven football games the team retains hope of qualifying for the CIF playoffs.
The Mariners would have to win their final two regular season games, including Saturday night’s homecoming contest against St. Anthony at Corsair Field, then emerge from a three-way tie for third place in the Santa Fe League.
A long shot, perhaps, but not impossible.
St. Monica lost to undefeated league leader St. Genevieve, 48-28 last weekend at LA Poly High. But the game was tied at intermission before the home team’s depth prevailed.
“We were behind 21-7 but were even, 21-all at halftime,” said St. Monica coach Larry Muno. “Then they pulled away.”
St. Monica had a touchdown pass to Kyle Farber, strong running by Tommy Murray and Matthew Partyka’s touchdown pass to Michael Redondo in the first half.
Muno also praised Jack Porter for strong play on both offense and defense.
“We had a gallant performance,” said Muno. “There were a lot of positives.”
An early fumble and a pass that was intercepted at the Mariner 20, however, contributed to the defeat.
