Mater Dei Edges Out Bishop Gorman 27-24

Bowman and Henry Shine

Mater Dei leaned on two of its All-American playmakers to carry the offense.

• Mark Bowman (TE): Five receptions for 105 yards, including touchdown catches of 29 and 36 yards.

• Chris Henry Jr. (WR): Six catches for 116 yards, capped by the game-winning 37-yard touchdown with just over six minutes left.

Quarterback Ryan Hopkins rebounded from last week’s struggles with precision and confidence. He went 15 of 19 passing for 252 yards, keeping Mater Dei’s offense steady despite penalties and pressure.

“It’s facing adversity,” Hopkins said. “Last week was a tough one. This is a step forward. It’s next-play mentality.”

A Back-and-Forth Battle

The first half ended 14-14 after both teams traded momentum swings. Mater Dei blocked a Gorman field goal attempt and returned it deep into Gaels territory, but had to settle for a kick. Gorman’s defense forced a Hopkins fumble returned for a touchdown, only to see it wiped away by penalty.

At halftime, Mater Dei regrouped, showing sharper execution and leaning on their stars to push past the Gaels in the final quarter.

Gaels’ Standouts

Despite the loss, Bishop Gorman showcased talent of its own. Quarterback Maika Eugenio moved well in the pocket and tossed two touchdown passes. Massiah Mingo hauled in long receptions of 62 and 38 yards, keeping the Gaels in striking range until the final whistle.

Defense Delivers for Mater Dei

Linebacker Ezekiel Su’a stood out on defense, recording a sack and batting down a crucial pass in the second half. His energy helped steady a Monarch defense that had struggled in recent weeks.

What’s Next

Mater Dei (3-1) enters a bye week before opening Trinity League play against Orange Lutheran on Oct. 3. Bishop Gorman (4-1) will travel to Southern California next weekend for a clash with Santa Margarita at Trabuco Hills.

With the win, Mater Dei reasserts itself as a national contender. The Monarchs’ improved discipline, offensive balance, and resilience set the stage for a critical stretch run that includes a Halloween date with St. John Bosco and potential Southern Section playoff rematches against Sierra Canyon or Centennial.

“Great game. Two great teams and great programs,” Lara said. “We knew it was going to be a fight. I’m proud of my guys.”