Vista Murrieta triumphed over Damien in a thrilling CIF Southern Section Division 2 playoff opener on Friday night, securing a 36-31 victory with a last-minute touchdown. Senior running back Aiden Williams was the star of the show, rushing for a career-high 222 yards and scoring the game-winning touchdown with just 28 seconds left on the clock.
Coach Coley Candaele had anticipated a defensive battle, but the game quickly turned into a high-scoring affair. The absence of senior quarterback Bryson Beaver, who is heading to Oregon, left the Broncos leaning heavily on their rushing attack to keep pace with the Spartans. Williams emerged as a key player, carrying the ball 35 times and finding the end zone twice.
“I”ve been ready for this moment since day one,” Williams stated after the game. “I love my team to death and believe in every one of them. I did this for all of them.” Williams has faced numerous challenges off the field, including working a job in Los Angeles to support his family while pursuing his passion for football.
Candaele expressed immense pride in Williams, noting, “Aiden Williams” story is beyond what anyone can imagine. For him to come out here and do what he does in the classroom and on the football field, sometimes with very little sleep, is remarkable.” He added that Williams deserved this moment more than anyone.
The game started strong for Damien, with quarterback Isaiah Arriaza connecting with Travon Garrison Jr. for a stunning 50-yard touchdown pass on the opening play. Arriaza later added a 9-yard touchdown run, putting the Spartans ahead early. However, Vista Murrieta”s offense rebounded after a shaky start, tying the game at 7-7 thanks to a 15-yard touchdown pass from freshman quarterback Levi Dean to Cash Bryant.
Vista Murrieta”s special teams made a significant impact in the second quarter, with Zachary Aleman returning a punt for 73 yards and Nemirah Davidson adding a 56-yard interception return. These plays propelled the Broncos to a 21-7 lead. Nevertheless, Damien”s Arriaza and Garrison continued to connect, with two more touchdowns narrowing the gap to 24-19 by halftime.
Following halftime, Damien regained the lead at 25-24, showcasing their resilience. Williams answered with a 3-yard touchdown run to reclaim the lead for Vista Murrieta, but Damien countered with a lengthy drive capped by a 1-yard touchdown run from William Bryant Jr., making it 31-30 in favor of the Spartans.
In a decisive drive, Williams dominated the ball for the Broncos, leading to his final touchdown that ultimately secured the win. Despite being injured late in the game, Arriaza returned to lead a final push for Damien, but their efforts fell short as his last attempt ended just shy of the end zone.
Coach James Stewart reflected on the emotional weight of the game for his senior quarterback, stating, “The program was not what people perceive until he and these other seniors got here. He”s been a leader, and we”re going to miss him.” The game concluded with a heartfelt moment between Stewart and Arriaza, highlighting the deep connection forged over three years of dedication and leadership.
