Clairton, Pa. – The Clairton Bears secured a spot in the WPIAL Class A semifinals on Friday night, defeating the sixth‑seeded California Trojans 28‑8 at Southmoreland High School’s Russ Grimm Field. Senior quarterback Jaece Booker was the decisive factor, delivering two long touchdowns, a 75‑yard kickoff return and two key interceptions.
Booker’s explosive play set the tone
Booker opened the second half with a spectacular 75‑yard kickoff return that put the Bears ahead early. Earlier, he scored a 27‑yard rushing touchdown and helped convert a two‑point attempt, giving Clairton an 8‑0 lead before halftime. The Bears did not score again until the final seconds of the first half, when Booker’s 23‑yard run set up a 18‑yard pass‑play touchdown, extending the lead to 14‑0 at the break.
Dominant defense and special teams
Clairton’s defense limited California to just 132 total yards and forced three turnovers, including two interceptions by Booker. The Bears also held the Trojans to a single first down on their first two drives of the third quarter. Defensive back Alan Dennis was held to minus‑4 yards on 13 carries, underscoring the Bears’ aggressive front line.
Coach Wayne Wade praised his team’s preparation, noting the Bears’ motto: “If they can’t score, we can’t lose.” He added that the victory should serve as strong preparation for the upcoming semifinal against No. 2 Shenango at Beaver Area High School.
California’s effort
Despite the loss, the Trojans fought back late, completing a 16‑play, 68‑yard drive that ended with a 6‑yard touchdown pass from quarterback Brandon Meier to Weston Monticelli. Monticelli also ran in the two‑point conversion, bringing the final score to 28‑8.
Coach Ed Woods highlighted his players’ defensive performance, calling it the best of the season. He also commended quarterback Meier for his dual‑role contributions, noting Meier’s 9‑of‑23 passing for 87 yards, a touchdown, two interceptions, and a team‑leading 63 rushing yards on 12 carries.
Looking ahead
Clairton (10‑2) will face Shenango next Friday, while California finishes the season at 9‑3. The Bears’ next challenge will test whether their stout defense and explosive special‑teams play can continue against a higher‑seeded opponent.
Both coaches expressed pride in their seniors, emphasizing the importance of leadership and character on and off the field. The win adds momentum to Clairton’s playoff run and showcases the talent emerging from the region’s high‑school football programs.
Original reporting: Herald-Standard – latest news for Uniontown, Pennsylvania — read the source article.
