Crespi High School’s football team showcased remarkable resilience by overcoming a 14-point first-half deficit to secure a 31-16 victory against Salesian High School on October 17, 2025. With this win, Crespi improved its season record to 8-0 and took sole possession of first place in the Del Rey League, maintaining an undefeated 3-0 record in league play.
Crespi head coach Brad Vonnahme praised his team’s determination, stating, “It did not start well. We were very resilient, very opportunistic.” He had emphasized the need to stop Salesian’s run game, allowing Crespi’s pass rush to take control, which they did effectively throughout the match.
The Crespi defense delivered a standout performance, forcing four turnovers and scoring two defensive touchdowns. Notably, Oliver White intercepted a pass, returning it 34 yards for a touchdown in the fourth quarter, adding to his impressive season tally. Additionally, edge rusher Somto Nwute dominated with three sacks, contributing significantly to the defensive effort.
Salesian initially took command of the game, establishing a 14-0 lead early on. Quarterback Donovan Shirley, who has committed to Sacramento State, threw two long touchdown passes in the first quarter. However, Crespi responded when linebacker Daniel Tobar recovered a fumble in the end zone, narrowing the gap to 14-7. Despite a strong end-of-half drive that fell short at the 1-yard line, Crespi shifted momentum into the second half.
Salesian added to their score with a safety, bringing the lead to 16-7. Yet, Crespi quickly retaliated. Following the second turnover of the game, Jaden Ayala scored on a 31-yard touchdown run, reducing Salesian’s lead to just two points.
The Crespi defense continued to apply pressure, forcing consecutive three-and-outs. This enabled Tate Benjamin to kick a 27-yard field goal, giving Crespi a 17-16 advantage early in the fourth quarter. A pivotal moment occurred when punter Blue McFarland executed a 44-yard run on a fake punt, keeping the drive alive and setting up the field goal.
With the score now in their favor, Crespi’s defense continued to shine. White forced another fumble, setting up Crespi at the Salesian 40-yard line. Three plays later, Chase Curren connected with McFarland for a 17-yard touchdown pass, extending the lead to 24-16.
In the closing moments of the game, Salesian attempted to mount a comeback, but White sealed the victory with an interception, which he returned for a touchdown, finalizing the score at 31-16. Ayala finished the game with 11 carries for 89 yards and one touchdown, while Curren completed 19 of 31 passes for 207 yards, including one touchdown pass and an interception.
“Our defense has been lockdown all season. There’s no team that can compete with us in this league,” said White, reflecting on the team’s performance.
Crespi will aim for a ninth straight victory as they prepare to face Harvard-Westlake at Sofi Stadium next week. Meanwhile, Salesian will seek to rebound against St. Anthony in their upcoming match.