Seven Sacks Power Santa Margarita Past Mater Dei To Stay Undefeated

It was seven sacks and a late interception that helped Santa Margarita keep its undefeated season intact.

The Eagles held off Mater Dei 14–7 on Friday, October 2, at Saddleback College in Mission Viejo, improving to 6–0. This rematch marked the second consecutive year Santa Margarita defeated the Monarchs.

Leading the defense was Kingston Jimmerson and Ca’ron Williams, each recording two sacks. The two—and the defensive lineup—were successful at keeping the pressure on Mater Dei freshman quarterback Paytyn Guess.

Mater Dei got on the scoreboard first with a six-yard touchdown run from Asir Nembhard in the opening quarter. But the Monarchs wouldn’t score again.

Eagles quarterback Fletch Palmer then connected with Grant Van Raaphorst to set up a short touchdown run by Adrian Petero, tying the game at 7–7 in the second quarter.

Santa Margarita took its first lead in the third quarter when Palmer found Van Raaphorst for a touchdown with 7:47 remaining.

It was still plenty of time left for Mater Dei to respond. However, it was a  missed field goal and a failed fourth-down attempt kept the Monarchs behind.

Freshman safety Jayden Jack then intercepted a pass in the end zone, securing the win.

Santa Margarita is scheduled to host Servite on Friday, October 9, at 7 p.m. at Saddleback College.