Football friday

Top Performers
Cardinal Mooney defensive back Tyler Garris recorded two interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown, to help lead the Cougars to their second-consecutive district title.

Booker running back Jamal Benson rushed for nearly 100 yards and a touchdown to help the Tornadoes clinch a berth in the playoffs as the Class 5A-District 13 runner-up.

Booker defensive back Vince Sellars had two interceptions, one of which he returned 60 yards for a touchdown.

+ Cougars win district crown
The Cardinal Mooney football defeated Bishop Verot 44-6 to capture the Class 3A-District 10 championship for the second-consecutive season.

The Cougars took a 17-0 lead in the first quarter. Jake LaFemina gave Cardinal Mooney a 3-0 lead on a 25-yard field goal. Quarterback Reese Vita then rushed for a 15-yard score and also connected with Mitch Arimura for an 8-yard touchdown.

Jaz Mongeon and Bryce Williams added touchdown runs of 26 and 17 yards, respectively.

Defensively, the Cougars recorded four interceptions with Sean Morris Jr. and Taylor Garris both returning interceptions for touchdowns in the fourth quarter.

As the district champion, Cardinal Mooney will host Clearwater Calvary Christian in a regional semifinal game Nov. 14.

+ Tornadoes clinch playoff berth
The Booker High football team earned a berth in the regional playoffs with a 22-14 victory over Southeast Oct. 31.

Booker took an early lead before the defense took control. The Tornadoes finished with five interceptions, a fumble recovery and a safety to preserve the victory.

With the win, the Tornadoes clinched the Class 5A-District 13 runner-up spot. Booker will travel to Cape Coral Island Coast for a regional semifinal game Nov. 14.

OBSERVER GAME OF THE WEEK
NOV. 7 (7:30 p.m.)
Sarasota vs. Riverview
With their playoff hopes dashed, Friday night’s rivalry game between Sarasota and Riverview is all about pride. After reaching the playoffs last season, the Sailors and Rams both find themselves on the outside looking in. Riverview won last year’s contest 47-10, and both teams will be seeking to close out their season on a winning note.

Game Changer
Reese Vita
Quarterback
Cardinal Mooney High

Vita completed eight of 13 passes for 153 yards and a touchdown to help lead the Cougars to their second straight district title. He also scored on a 15-yard run.

SCORE BOARD
Week 10 // OCT. 31

Cardinal Mooney 44
Bishop Verot 6

Booker 22
Southeast 14

Lakewood Ranch 33
Sarasota 14

St. Petersburg 38
Riverview 7

Victory Christian 45
ODA 0