LA VERNE — Damien is making an early case to play for a CIF-Southern Section Division 1 championship this season thanks to quarterback Isaiah Arriaza. He completed 10 of 18 passes for 276 yards and four touchdowns as the Spartans defeated St. Paul, 38-28, in a nonleague game on Friday night.

Arriaza got some help though. Running back Malachi McFarland rushed for 170 yards on 13 carries, which included an electric 99-yard touchdown run.

It was hardly a pretty game for Damien (3-0). The Spartans committed 17 penalties and let St. Paul (0-3) claw back in the second half after building a 38-14 lead in the third quarter.

The Damien offense looked smooth and in control for much of the first three quarters. The Spartans shook off a penalty-marred opening drive that still resulted in points wit

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