St. John Bosco avenges playoff loss to Orange Lutheran
The Braves respond to the Lancers' early scoring drive to score four of the next five touchdowns and a 14-point victory in Trinity League clash.
On a dry Friday night in Bellflower, St. John Bosco aimed to avenge their playoff loss to Orange Lutheran from the previous season. Quarterback Koa Malau'ulu expressed that the defeat still weighed on them. Offensive line coach Chris Ward of Orange Lutheran had jokingly mentioned rain earlier, but it never materialized. The Braves entered the game with a determined spirit, shoving and facing off with Orange Lutheran players before tip-off.
Malau'ulu threw for two touchdowns and connected with his 6-foot-5 cousin Kuika Moaalii for several key plays, guiding St. John Bosco to a 28-14 victory. The win sets up a Friday showdown against No. 1-ranked Santa Margarita. Coach Jason Negro emphasized the importance of the upcoming game, noting the defending state champs' strong schedule.
Malau'ulu and Moaalii have been working together since they were 10. Malau'ulu scored on a 15-yard run, followed by a 55-yard touchdown run with the final seconds ticking away. Safety Kingston Fatu had a strong game, including two interceptions and a sack. Orange Lutheran (4-3, 1-1) began strongly, with Ryan Christianson scoring on a one-yard run on their opening drive.
St. John Bosco responded with three touchdowns in the second half, with Maliq Allen scoring on a one-yard run, DJ Tubbs catching a six-yard touchdown pass, and Moaalii making a 21-yard touchdown reception. Christianson added an 78-yard touchdown run in the second half, while DJ Tubbs stood out with his all-around performance. The game was intense, with both teams displaying physical play and strong coaching.
Malau'ulu expressed his eagerness to face Santa Margarita next, describing them as friends, cousins, or former teammates.
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