The CIF Open Division state football championship between the Mater Dei Monarchs and De La Salle Spartans turned out to be another showcase of high school football excellence, with the Monarchs claiming victory by 37-15. The thrilling match, held on December 14, 2024, at Saddleback College in Mission Viejo, California, showcased both teams' impressive undefeated records.
Mater Dei entered the contest with a perfect 12-0 record, riding high on their performance throughout the season. The Monarchs were coming off impressive wins and had set their eyes on securing their fifth state title. Facing them was the equally formidable De La Salle, also boasting a flawless 12-0 record, eager to make their mark and prevent Mater Dei from prevailing.
From the onset, the Mater Dei Monarchs seized control of the game. They kicked off to begin the match and quickly demonstrated their offensive prowess. Quarterback Dash Beierly orchestrated the team with precision, guiding them down the field. The first points came when running back Jordon Davison scored on a two-yard run, showcasing the Monarchs' strength right from the get-go.
By the end of the first quarter, Mater Dei had doubled their lead, with Beierly launching a stunning 90-yard touchdown pass to Gavin Honore, putting the Monarchs up 14-0. The dominance continued through the second quarter, where the Monarchs continued to control the pace of the game. Beierly's accuracy and quick decisions allowed him to find Kayden Dixon-Wyatt for another touchdown, ending the first half with them firmly leading 23-0.
While the first half was undoubtedly Mater Dei's showcase, the second half featured De La Salle's determination to mount a comeback. Coming out of halftime, they were revitalized and ready to push back against the prevailing tide. The Spartans struck quickly, with quarterback Toa Faavae sneaking the ball across the goal line to score their first points of the game. De La Salle began to show the fight and grit expected from both teams.
Before long, excitement surged when Faavae dashed for another score, this time taking off on a 41-yard run. With the added two-point conversion from Derrick Blanche Jr., the Spartans had reduced the deficit to just 23-15, stirring hope among their loyal fans.
Anticipation grew as the Monarchs found themselves facing a challenge they had not encountered all season. Nevertheless, Mater Dei stood their ground. Yields from powerful plays by Beierly helped them regain momentum heading back to the fourth quarter. Beierly connected with Marcus Harris, establishing the groundwork for another scoring opportunity.
With 8:19 left on the clock, Davison, who had been instrumental throughout the game, trucked through the Spartans' defense for his second touchdown, restoring Mater Dei's lead to two touchdowns at 30-15.
Mater Dei's defense continued to hold strong, setting the stage for another significant play. Beierly, showcasing his exceptional skills, threw his third touchdown of the night to tight end Mark Bowman. With just over five minutes remaining, the Monarchs were comfortably placed at 37-15.
De La Salle, now desperate, attempted to make some noise but faced obstacles as Mater Dei's defense performed repeatedly, intercepting the ball and maintaining their lead to the final whistle. The victory was decisive, and the Monarchs celebrated as they solidified their second consecutive CIF Open Division state title and fifth overall, marking the end of the 2024 California high school football season.
This clash of titans not only highlighted the skill and determination present at the high school football level but also showcased the strategic gameplay pivotal for the championship. Out of the 12 games this season, Mater Dei displayed their prowess, with Beierly leading the charge, and this game will likely be remembered for years to come.
Mater Dei continues to set the standard for excellence, leaving fans and opponents alike anticipating what they will achieve next season.
