In a commanding display of skill and determination, the Walnut Mustangs secured their spot in the CIF Southern Section Division 13 championship game for the second consecutive year by defeating the San Bernardino Cardinals with a convincing score of 38-13.

The Walnut Mustangs capitalize on a San Bernardino Cardinals turnover on a 31-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Noah Covarrubias to Harland Fluker and Walnut takes the 7-0 lead with less than 10 minutes remaining in the first quarter. Video by Dr. Ryan Maine.

The Mustangs’ offensive prowess was on full display from the opening kickoff. Quarterback Noah Covarrubias delivered a stellar performance, finishing the game with four total touchdowns, including three impressive passing touchdowns and 142 yards through the air in the first half alone.

The Walnut Mustangs quarterback Noah Covarrubias with the 20-yard pass to Raymond Katchur for the touchdown. Walnut led San Bernardino 14-0 with less than 8 minutes left in the first quarter. Video by Dr. Ryan Maine.

Demetrius Stampley was the key for the Mustangs‘ running game. Stampley’s contributions were crucial, amassing 121 rushing yards and adding one touchdown to the scoreboard.

The Walnut Mustangs Demetrius Stampley with a 54-yard rushing touchdown that extends the Mustangs lead 21-0 with under two minutes left in the first quarter. Video by Dr. Ryan Maine.

Unfortunately, Stampley’s stellar night was cut short due to a wrist injury, sidelining him for the entire third quarter. Despite his absence, the Mustangs continued to dominate, showcasing their depth and adaptability.

The Walnut Mustangs quarterback Noah Covarrubias with the 31-yard pass to Janon Reed for the touchdown. Walnut led San Bernardino 28-0 with under one-minute left in the first quarter.

San Bernardino’s triple-option offense, led by quarterback Xavier Alvarez, faced an uphill battle as the Mustangs’ defense stifled their early efforts. Two fumbles on consecutive plays during the Cardinals’ first two drives set the tone for a challenging night.

Despite the Cardinals’ defense holding Walnut scoreless in the second and third quarters, the Mustangs’ offense roared back to life in the second half. A 14-play touchdown drive, highlighted by a Covarrubias 2-yard scramble for a touchdown, effectively sealed the game with less than 11 minutes remaining. San Bernardino managed to score one more touchdown, but it was too little, too late.

With the win, Walnut advances to the Division 13 championship game, where they will host St. Monica in a bid for back-to-back titles.