Strong Second Half Propels Tartans Past La Mirada 30-22

Despite a shaky start, the Tartans battled back to defeat a tough La Mirada Matadors team 30-22 in front of an energized home crowd on Friday evening. The win marked the first time St. Margaret's, currently competing in CIF-SS Div. VI, claimed victory over a Div. IV opponent in football.

 

Opening the first quarter with a fumble resulting in a Matador touchdown, the Tartan offense slowly imposed its will over a cagey La Mirada defense. Will Kenner was uncoverable all evening, hauling in 10 catches including a 64-yard touchdown strike in the fourth quarter to break the game open for the Tartans. Quarterback Jake Carreon was 18/42 with 206 yards and two touchdowns while Cooper Barkate had three receptions for 15 yards, a receiving touchdown and a 28-yard rushing touchdown.

 

Defensively, the Tartans rose to the occasion, limiting the Matadors options and keeping La Mirada out of the end zone for the majority of the game. Caden Smith led with four tackles, seven assists and 1.5 sacks. Matt Stevenson (8 total tackles), Parker Hogan (6 total tackles), Kyle Juergens (5 total tackles) and Nick Ostlund (blocked FG) anchored the Tartan defense.

 

St. Margaret's secondary play was stifling, with Sean Sullivan's 50-yard interception return for a touchdown sealing the victory for St. Margaret's.

 

The Tartans will enjoy the victory and a bye week before returning to the gridiron against El Toro on Sept. 20.

 

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