McClymonds unable to slow Kennedy-Delano, falls in 3-A state final

FULLERTON — McClymonds’ quest for its fifth state title in 10 years fell short on Saturday night.

Kennedy-Delano’s heavy ground attack proved too much for the West Oakland school as the Thunderbirds won 42-25 to capture the Division 3-A title at Fullerton Union High School District Stadium.

Kennedy’s Wing-T offense proved lethal as running back/defensive end Jace Demacabalin dominated the show.

The 6-foot-1, 205-pound senior ran for five touchdowns and had four sacks to lead the Central Valley school.

The Thunderbirds didn’t pass one time in the first half and rushed to the tune of 209 yards and three touchdowns.

Meanwhile, the Warriors struggled to find a rhythm despite stringing together long, dominant drives. Kennedy sacked quarterback Berell Staples three times.

McClymonds fumbled on its first possession, leading to a 38-yard rushing score from Cristian Hernandez.

Dominic Davis’ three-yard score kept McClymonds in the game, down 21-7.

Like many McClymonds’ teams before them, the Warriors were successful this season fielding just over 20 players.

McClymonds’ dropped just two games this season, once to Central Coast Section Open Division champion Archbishop Riordan and another to solid East Bay Athletic League program California.

The Warriors righted the ship, though, defeating West Catholic Athletic powerhouse St. Francis and then cruising through the Oakland Athletic League.

Unlike other years, McClymonds did get the luxury of getting a few built-in bye weeks when Santa Cruz forfeited a game scheduled in September while getting a week off after winning the Silver Bowl.

McClymonds has won the last 16 Oakland Section titles.