Defensive surge lifts Patriots to final

Players at Patrick Henry High School now face a Saturday championship game after their defense dismantled the O’Farrell Charter offense. The Patriots won the San Diego Section Division III semifinals 21-6 on Tuesday. The result relies heavily on a defensive strategy that coach Alona Harper emphasized throughout the season. She told her players that defense wins championships, a mantra that proved effective when the offense struggled.

The defensive unit recorded four interceptions during the game against O’Farrell. One of those turnovers was a pick-six that helped secure the lead. Harper noted that the defense held the line even when the team could not score. She described the defensive play as the shining part of the entire team. This reliance on defense became necessary after injuries struck the roster early in the year. Five starters, including quarterback Olive Murillo, suffered season-ending injuries. Murillo tore her ACL in the season opener.

The coaching staff reshuffled the lineup to fill the gaps. They promoted players from junior varsity and asked others to take on new roles. Harper said the team had to make adjustments they were not prepared for. The players battled back through film study and practice. Lexi Raymond stepped into the starting quarterback position. She had been a dynamic presence on the ground for the 10-11 Patriots. Raymond rushed for 1,000 yards during the season at 10 yards per carry. She also threw for 13 touchdowns.

In the semifinal, Raymond ran for 150 yards. Her most impactful play was a 73-yard touchdown run. Harper has coached Raymond since eighth grade. She said Raymond is willing to play any position. Harper added that Raymond always confirms she will handle whatever role is assigned. Raymond also connected with junior Michelle Ng for 40 yards on three catches. Freshman Vivian Nett added four receptions for 30 yards and a touchdown. Nett is the only freshman on the varsity roster. She joined the team from JV late in the season.

Nett intercepted a pass against O’Farrell. She joins Tayte Miller, Kiara Torralba, and Daniella Munoz in the four-interception total. Miller returned her interception 12 yards for a touchdown. That score capped the offensive output for the game. Harper said the girls are motivated and locked in. They are preparing mentally, physically, and emotionally for the next match. Torrey Pines and Helix flag football teams also advanced to Saturday’s games at Olympian High School in Chula Vista.