The562’s football coverage for the 2026-27 school year is sponsored by Long Beach Poly alums Wendell “WoWo” Moe, Jr. & Tyson Ruffins.
St. Anthony is still on the hunt for their first win of the 2026 season, taking on a strong 4-1 Rio Hondo Prep team as their next fight. The 0-4 Saints are hosting the Kares for a Friday Night Lights faceoff.
The two teams last faced off in 2025, where Rio Hondo Prep dominated in a 52-17 win. The Kares got off to a fiery start in that previous match up, jumping out to a 35-3 lead after the first quarter and going into halftime ahead 38-3.
The Kares also had a deep playoff run last season, as they have had since 2023 with more overall season records that display the team’s strength. Rio Hondo Prep lost key returners but still kept some important players for the 2026 season.
Senior Elias Har was an All-CIF Division 5 defensive back last year and is back for his final season with the Kares. He’s joined by fellow senior Christian Lee, who was also an All-CIF selection.
Sophomore Matthew Montez is representing the underclassmen Kares. The two-way player is currently leading Rio Hondo Prep with 101 rushing yards per game, according to MaxPreps.
St. Anthony has their own powerhouse in the rushing game. Senior Evan Martinez has been working as the team’s running back this year.
Despite a loss to Valley Christian last week, Martinez finished with almost 100 rushing yards on 14 carries, including an 18-yard touchdown. Sophomore Juice Smith is another standout for the Saints, collecting at least four touchdowns this season so far, including two on 60+ yard plays against Valley Christian.
There’s a strong slew of players behind these two stars, and St. Anthony seems to be heating up entering this game. But, a strong Rio Hondo Prep team will be a tough contest for the Saints.
Kickoff is set for 7pm at Clark Field.
