The anticipation is building in Southern California as St. Anthony prepares to host Ontario Christian in what will be the first ever football meeting between the two schools. Both programs opened the 2026 campaign with narrow defeats, leaving them dead‑locked at 0‑1 and eager to flip the script.
Week 2 Showdown Looms
St. Anthony’s loss to Canyon Springs ended 20‑13, a game that saw senior running back Evan Martinez named Most Valuable Player after a standout performance that included multiple rushing touchdowns. Freshman offensive lineman Lucky Otine also drew praise for his poise in the trenches, while quarterback Aiden Jones connected with sophomore Juice Smith on several scoring drives, the latter earning Special Teams Player of the Game honors.
Opening Results
Across the field, Ontario Christian fell 20‑14 to Chino, scoring early touchdowns in the first half before a late surge stalled their comeback. The team’s offense managed to find the end zone twice in the opening quarters, but inconsistencies in the second half ultimately cost them the victory.
Standout Performances
Martinez’s blend of power and agility makes him a focal point for St. Anthony’s ground attack, while Otine’s emergence adds depth to a young offensive line. For Ontario Christian, the early‑quarter touchdown drives highlighted the potential of their skill position players, though they will need to sustain that momentum against a disciplined St. Anthony defense.
Rankings and History
The rankings reflect the narrow margin between the two squads, with St. Anthony positioned at No. 259 and Ontario Christian just a few spots behind at No. 272 in the Southern Section standings. This proximity, coupled with the fact that neither team has ever faced the other, amplifies the stakes of the upcoming clash.
Looking Ahead
As kickoff approaches, the atmosphere is electric, with both teams hoping to turn early setbacks into a springboard for the rest of the season. The outcome will not only affect early rankings but also set the tone for future encounters between these emerging programs.