Jonah Bertoli with a pick-six to
score the games first TD
Cardinal Newman football pulled off a huge upset victory Friday night, defeating CIF defending 2-AA State Champ Grant Union 15–7 in front of a vibrant home crowd. The win was fueled by a dominant defensive performance lead by the Cardinal's secondary, with the Cardinals forcing seven turnovers, including six interceptions and two pick-sixes.
Defense Turns the Tide
The game's momentum swung in the second quarter, when Newman's secondary made two huge plays:
- Jonah Bertoli returned an interception for a touchdown early in the second quarter.
- Minutes later, Kordell Strane added another pick-six, giving the Cardinals a commanding lead.
Junior Ka'vaughn Penney kept the defensive onslaught going with three interceptions, including a game-sealing pick in the end zone late in the fourth quarter. A fumble recovery by the defense rounded out Newman's seven total takeaways, frustrating Grant's high-powered offense all night.
Offense and Special Teams Step Up
Newman played without star quarterback LT Retamoza, sidelined with a broken collarbone. Junior Carmine Guevara made his first varsity start and handled the offense with poise, managing the game while letting the defense dictate the pace.
The final points came from soccer goalie-turned-kicker Devin Taylor, who, after missing two extra points, calmly drilled a field goal from the right hash to cap the scoring and seal the win.
A Statement Win
Coming off a 40–7 loss to Manteca in the season opener, the Cardinals responded with resilience and teamwork. The victory evened Newman's record at 1–1 and sends a clear message that this team is ready to compete with anyone in California.
Looking Ahead:
Next up, Cardinal Newman travels to Armijo High School on Friday night, aiming to build on the momentum from this signature win.
Carmine Guevara managed the offense well enough
in his first varsity start at QB
Final Score: Cardinal Newman 15, Grant Union 7
Key Stats: 7 forced turnovers • 6 interceptions • 2 pick-sixes (Bertoli, Strane)
Players of the Game:
- Jonah Bertoli – Pick-six
- Kordel Strane – Pick-six
- Kavaughn Penney (Junior) – 3 INTs, including game-sealer
- Carmine Guevara – solid first varsity start at QB
- Devin Taylor – clutch field goal to close scoring
