MONTVALE, NJ – St. Joseph (Mont.) reverses an early setback to trounce Donovan Catholic 52-28, highlighted by quarterback Patrick Grusser’s impressive 274-yard passing game.
The game started off in Donovan Catholic’s favor, with two rushing touchdowns from Najee Calhoun in the first quarter. Dante Priolo’s successful kicks set the score at 14-0, but that lead was short-lived.
In the second quarter, St. Joseph (Mont.) sprung to life. Salvatore Salafia opened the scoring with a 27-yard field goal, followed by a string of touchdowns. Jovon Williams caught a 15-yard pass from Grusser, and Nathan Bailey ran for a 5-yard touchdown. James Montesano capped off the quarter with another 5-yard touchdown pass from Grusser, making it 24-14 at the half.
The third quarter was no less active, with John Forster and Grusser himself adding to St. Joseph’s tally with rushing touchdowns. Donovan Catholic’s Calhoun responded with a 19-yard run, but St. Joseph closed the quarter with a 44-yard run from Terrance Sumter, increasing their lead to 45-21.
In the fourth quarter, Mekhi Rossignol pulled in a 49-yard touchdown pass from Grusser. Calhoun closed the game with a 1-yard run for Donovan Catholic, but it wasn’t enough to turn the tide.
Nathan Bailey was the leading receiver for St. Joseph (Mont.) with 134 yards, while Matthieu Worthy recorded the sole interception for Donovan Catholic.
The win brings St. Joseph (Mont.)’s record to 5-1, and Donovan Catholic moves to 4-1 for the season.