Corona Centennial Blocks Mater Dei’s Final Playoff Bid in Thrilling Semifinal Upset

Corona Centennial ended Mater Dei’s championship run with a stunning last-second victory. The Huskies blocked a potential game-winning field goal as time expired on Friday night. This dramatic 28-27 win sends Centennial to the CIF Southern Section Division 1 final.

According to the Los Angeles Times, this marks Centennial’s second victory over Mater Dei this season. The Huskies now advance to face Santa Margarita at the Rose Bowl. Mater Dei’s season concludes with an 8-3 record after the heartbreaking loss.

How the Final Seconds Determined the Game’s Outcome

The game came down to one crucial play. Mater Dei lined up for a 46-yard field goal with 9 seconds remaining. Centennial’s Miles Schirmer broke through the line and blocked the kick.

Players and fans erupted as the ball fell harmlessly to the turf. The block preserved Centennial’s one-point lead and secured their championship berth. Schirmer described the moment as the biggest of his football career.

Centennial had taken the lead just moments earlier. Quarterback Dominick Catalano connected with Keawe Browne on a 24-yard touchdown pass. That score put the Huskies ahead 28-27 with 1:35 left in the game.

What This Victory Means for Both Programs

For Centennial, this win validates their entire season. Beating a national powerhouse like Mater Dei twice demonstrates their elite status. The Huskies improved to 11-1 and will play for the Division 1 championship.

Mater Dei’s loss marks a rare early playoff exit for the storied program. The Monarchs entered the season with national championship aspirations. Their three losses all came against Southern California opponents.

The game featured five lead changes throughout the night. Neither team led by more than ten points at any stage. Both offenses exchanged big plays until the final seconds.

Key Performance Statistics

Centennial’s offense gained 415 total yards against Mater Dei’s defense. Quarterback Dominick Catalano passed for 290 yards and two touchdowns. He also added two rushing touchdowns in the victory.

Mater Dei’s offense responded with 27 points of their own. The Monarchs moved the ball effectively throughout the contest. Their final drive set up the field goal attempt that ultimately failed.

Looking Ahead to the Championship Matchup

Centennial now prepares for Santa Margarita in the Division 1 final. The teams met earlier this season with Santa Margarita winning in overtime. That 33-27 loss represents Centennial’s only defeat this year.

The championship game will be played at the Rose Bowl next Friday. Both teams feature high-powered offenses and opportunistic defenses. Centennial will seek revenge for their early-season loss.

Mater Dei’s season concludes despite a strong 8-3 campaign. The Monarchs will return several key players next season. Their tradition of excellence suggests they’ll be back in championship contention.

Centennial’s dramatic victory over Mater Dei proves that anything can happen in playoff football. The Huskies now have an opportunity to claim the Division 1 championship. Their semifinal win will be remembered for years to come.

Thought you’d like to know

How many times has Centennial beaten Mater Dei this season?

Centennial defeated Mater Dei twice during the 2023 season. Both victories came by narrow margins. The Huskies have established dominance over their Southern California rivals.

Where will the Division 1 championship game be played?

The championship will be held at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. This historic venue hosts the CIF Southern Section’s premier game. Both teams will experience the iconic stadium atmosphere.

What was the final score of the Centennial-Mater Dei game?

Corona Centennial defeated Mater Dei 28-27. The one-point margin reflected the game’s competitive nature. The outcome wasn’t decided until the final play.

Who made the game-winning play for Centennial?

Miles Schirmer blocked Mater Dei’s field goal attempt as time expired. The defensive lineman broke through protection to make the crucial play. His effort preserved Centennial’s narrow lead.

When did Centennial take their final lead?

The Huskies scored the go-ahead touchdown with 1:35 remaining. Dominick Catalano’s pass to Keawe Browne put Centennial ahead 28-27. The defense then made the lead stand up.

What is Centennial’s record heading into the championship?

Corona Centennial improved to 11-1 with the semifinal victory. Their only loss came against Santa Margarita in overtime. The Huskies have won eleven consecutive games since that defeat.