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Mater Dei’s top-ranked football team displayed an impressive passing attack to build a 23-point lead against St. Thomas Aquinas of Florida at halftime of the Broward County showcase in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. on Saturday.

The Monarchs, it turned out, needed almost all of that lead.

St. Thomas Aquinas surged in the second half but Mater Dei held on for a 26-23 victory in a clash of nationally-ranked teams.

Mater Dei, ranked No. 1 in the nation, led No. 10 St. Thomas Aquinas 26-3 at halftime.

The Raiders found more rhythm on offense and defense in the second half while the Monarchs struggled with penalties and on offense.

“We were just blessed to come out of Florida with a victory,” Mater Dei coach

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