Centauri’s Austin Stockebrand
Everyone had the Centauri at Monte Vista game circled on their calendars as one to see. The game lived up to the hype as Centauri flew into Sullivan Field to defeat Monte Vista, 28-24.
Centauri started the scoring in the first quarter as Austin Stockebrand pounded into the end zone from 4 yards out. Monte Vista responded as Andrew Chavez hit Khegan Gunter on a 14-yard scoring throw. The Pirates led after the first quarter 8–7. Layton Curtis gave Centauri the half time lead with an 11-yard run. The extra point was no good and Centauri led 13–8 at the intermission.
Monte Vista struck first in the third quarter as Chavez and Gunter hooked up for another score. The Pirate lead was extended to 5 as the Pirate defense got a safety late in the third quarter. As they started the fourth quarter, Monte Vista led 18–13.
Centauri scored twice to open the fourth quarter and built a 26–18 lead. Curtis had a second rushing touchdown then hooked up with Chaz Holman on a 32-yard passing touchdown. Monte Vista had a chance to tie with under two minutes to play. Chavez connected with Addan Heredia on a 33-yard score to cut the Falcon lead to 26–24. The Pirates were unable to convert the extra point and tie the game. The Pirates got the ball back with 10 seconds to play. Centauri picked up a safety on the final play of the game to get the 28–24 win.
Centauri finished 7–2 overall and 5–0 in league. This was also Coach Kyle Forster’s 100th career win. Monte Vista lost for the first time this season to finish 8–1, 4–1 in league play. Both teams will make the playoffs. CHSAA will release the playoff brackets on Sunday.