PHOTOS: Big third quarter lifts Crean Lutheran past Mary Star for home victory

Justin Dominguez scores a rushing TD for Crean Lutheran Friday night. (Photos courtesy Crean Lutheran Shutterbugs, John Luciano and Wendy Rueter).

Crean Lutheran High School’s football team broke open a close game with a big third quarter and went on to defeat Mary Star 43-0 in a non-league game Friday night at Crean Lutheran.

“We started out slow versus Mary Star on Friday night but turned the tide with a big third quarter,” said Saints Coach Rick Curtis.

The defense was led by Mason McCullough (seven tackles, three assists), Carter Jones (10 tackles, five assists) and Tyler Parker (six tackles, three assists).

“Anthony Jones and Daniel McEachern were also active with Jones coming up with two sacks, while McEarchern helped shut down the Stars’ running attack,” Curtis said.

To see the slide show, click on the first photo:

Crean Lutheran players, led by Coach Rick Curtis, charge out onto the field.

Ben Byszewski of Crean Lutheran gains yards.

Crean Lutheran gets ready to run a play vs. Mary Star.

Crean Lutheran quarterback Jeremiah Finaly throws a pass Friday.

Crean Lutheran spirit members entertain the fans.

Javari Nash of Crean Lutheran scores a TD after blocking a punt.

Crean Lutheran players celebrate the victory.

Javari Nash was the special teams player of the game with two blocked punts. After one, he took it in for a 30-yard touchdown in the opening minutes of the fourth quarter. Nash’s first blocked punt helped the Saints earn a safety as the punt block went out of the end zone. 

“For the second game in a row, Justin Dominguez rushed for over 100 yards, easily eclipsing that mark this week by rushing for 180 yards on 18 carries to go along with his three rushing touchdowns,” Curtis said.

“Kellen Cosenza and the rest of the improving offensive line blocked well throughout the evening.  Jeremiah Finaly was efficient again (14 of 19, 162 yards, one TD) as he connected with several receivers throughout the night. Ben Byszewski and Carter Jones each hauled in three passes with Jones’ scoring the lone passing touchdown on a 5-yard reception.”

Crean Lutheran (2-0) hosts Trabuco Hills on Friday. 

“This game will be a major test for this year’s team as Trabuco Hills comes in 1-0 after an exciting 31-28 victory over Huntington Beach in last week’s action,” Curtis said.