UPDATE: The Redwood High School football team’s season came to a crushing end on November 10, 2023, after a 20-0 defeat against the Miramonte Matadors in the North Coast Section Division IV semifinals held in Orinda. Despite making it deep into the playoffs last season, the Giants struggled to convert scoring opportunities, going 1-for-5 on fourth-down attempts inside the Matadors’ 30-yard line.
From the opening whistle, Redwood appeared poised to take control. Quarterback Cash Ward connected with Dylan McGrath for an impressive 50-yard gain on the first drive. However, the Giants failed to capitalize, turning the ball over on downs and setting the stage for a disappointing night.
Miramonte quickly seized the momentum, with quarterback Lane Dalton launching a game-changing 60-yard pass that placed them on Redwood’s 1-yard line. The Matadors scored a touchdown just moments later, taking a 7-0 lead. Redwood’s troubles compounded when they were penalized for hitting a fair-catch signal, giving Miramonte excellent field position that led to a 35-yard field goal by James Rogers, extending their lead to 10-0.
As the game progressed, Redwood’s offense faltered. The Giants faced multiple three-and-out possessions, with their best chance thwarted by a key defensive play from Miramonte. A potential fumble recovery slipped through their fingers, allowing the Matadors to score again, bringing the deficit to 17-0 just before halftime.
Even with the clock winding down, Redwood showed resilience. Their offense ignited briefly with a 25-yard run by Riley Ulin, but time expired as they approached the end zone, leaving them scoreless at the half.
The second half began with Miramonte maintaining control, but Redwood’s defense stepped up, highlighted by a pair of sacks from Wes Fitzpatrick. Unfortunately, the Giants continued to struggle offensively, failing to score despite starting drives at favorable field positions.
With just over ten minutes left in the game, Miramonte extended their lead to 20-0 with another successful 41-yard field goal from Rogers. Redwood mounted a strong drive, eating up over six minutes of clock but ultimately fell short, unable to convert on a critical fourth down.
As the final whistle blew, Miramonte secured the shutout, ending Redwood’s season and leaving players and fans devastated. The Giants finished the season with a record of 6-6, reflecting on missed opportunities and the pain of coming so close yet falling short.
As the dust settles on this semifinal clash, Redwood must regroup and reflect on the lessons learned this season. The Matadors advance, while the Giants face an uncertain off-season, filled with the hope of returning stronger next year.
Stay tuned for more updates as the playoffs continue.
