By Patrick Mangin ‘24
Last Friday, the Crusaders took on Montini Catholic for this season’s homecoming game. The three-win Crusaders had their playoff hopes on the line and they knew what was at stake.
The team had a great week of practice, competing hard everyday to get the players ready.
Senior running back Richard Willis said, “I think we had our best week of practice all season. We had four high energy practices and everyone was competing to make each other better.”
Hard work in practice paid off in the game early with a 65-yard rushing touchdown from senior Randall Nauden. This pushed the team to a 17-7 lead by halftime, but the Crusaders were not quite satisfied.
After a scoreless third quarter Nauden completed a stellar performance with his second touchdown of the game, sealing a much needed 24-7 win for the Crusaders.
Nauden said, “Being able to rush for 250 yards feels great. The offensive line play their hearts out every day to make sure I’m able to run the ball well. It was great to come out with a homecoming victory.”
The defense had an incredible game, only letting up seven points and forcing Montini to a scoreless second half.
Junior safety Conner Stack said, “The defensive line created a ton of pressure while the back seven limited the air attack by Montini’s offense. We were firing on all cylinders and hope to continue success against Saint Rita on Friday night.”
The Crusaders hope to earn a playoff spot in their last game of the regular season against their longtime rival Saint Rita this Friday at Tom Mitchell Field.
