'They were on a different level': Xavier Prep falls to a tough Aquinas team

It might not have been the easiest way to prepare for a league opener next week, but the Xavier Prep Saints knew they were in for a tough game Friday night against Aquinas High School in San Bernardino.

“It’s no secret that Aquinas is one of the better teams in Southern California," Xavier Prep head coach James Dockery said after his team fell 49-14 in the team’s final non-league game of the year. “They were on a different level tonight and that was very tough.”

The loss leaves Xavier Prep at 2-2-1 for the season heading into their Desert Empire League opener next week at Palm Desert. Aquinas is 3-2.

The Saints managed two touchdowns against the Falcons, both on passes from Joe Berry. One went for 14 yards to Austin McDanel, while the second came in the third quarter on a 17-yarder to Tyler Daft.

“We are making some improvements. Guys are starting to get used to what coach Pope is trying to do. Our offensive line played tough,” Dockery said. “Austin McDaniel made some big plays, had an interception, scored a touchdown. Joe Berry continues to take care of the ball.”

With league action just one week away, Dockery said his focus is on getting the Saints as healthy as they can be before taking on their Cook Street rivals in Palm Desert.

“I like our guys. The main thing for our school is always health . Health is wealth," Dockery said. "We played Rancho Christian and Aquinas. We’ve got to do a good job of getting our bodies back.”

This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: 'They were on a different level': Xavier Prep falls to a tough Aquinas team