The Norte Dame Prep Saints offense had been firing on all cylinders coming into Friday’s game vs Apollo and the Hawks had no answers for them defensively. The Saints remained undefeated as they exploded for 63 points at Bemis Field in Scottsdale.
The Saints offense was led by Texas Commit, Jake Smith scoring a total of 4 touchdowns (3 rushing and 1 receiving) but it was junior running back, Dominick Mastro doing the heavy lifting for the Saints ground game. Running behind Cade Bennett (Offers from ASU, Arizona, Iowa State and Syracuse) and Cale Gregory (Offers from M.I.T., Columbia, Penn and Carnegie-Mellon), Mastro rushed for over 140 yards.
Notre Dame jumped out to an early 14-0 lead in the 1st quarter but Apollo hung around behind the the downhill running of Ali Mohamed. Up 28-7 in the final minutes of the first half, Notre Dame attempted an onside kick that was recovered by Apollo. On the ensuing drive, Mohamed knifed through the Saints defense for a touchdown – giving the hawks some much needed momentum heading into the half. Mohamed finished the game with over 200 yards rushing.
The Saints slowly but surely pulled away in the second half scoring 21 points in the 3rd quarter. The Hawks were unable to find any offensive rhythm in the second half, backup quarterback, Brendan Penberthy struggled with his accuracy and finished the night with 4 interceptions, as he started in place of Frank Sanchez who missed the game due to a concussion.
George Prelock and Notre Dame will look to keep their undefeated season alive next week when they host Desert Mountain. Zack Threadgill and Apollo host Owensboro Catholic (KY) next week as they try to get back in the win column.
*Please note: there were technical difficulties during portions of the live stream. Some parts at the beginning and end of the game replay are not available. We apologize for any inconvenience.
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