By RYAN ARENA

L’Observateur

RESERVE — East St. John may have had to wait a week to notch a victory over a perennial state power. But after a tough loss to John Curtis, the Wildcats bounced back in a huge way to down visiting Parkview Baptist, the defending Class 3A state champion, 28-16.

Texas A&M commitment Darion Monroe, again, factored into the victory in a major way as Wildcats’ quarterback. He completed 11 passes (on 23 attempts) for 261 yards and two touchdowns, while rushing for 60 yards and another score. Monroe was not intercepted.

A different receiver seems to emerge each week for the Wildcats and this was no exception, as Marcus Robinson stepped up with four catches for 96 yards and a score. But all hands were indeed on deck; Rashad Green caught three passes for 78 yards. Dezsmann Broussard followed up his own monster week with 60 yards on two catches, and Kadeem Vance added a 23-yard touchdown reception.

The speedy Broussard also scored a rushing touchdown for ESJ.

The Wildcats (2-2) return to action next week in their final non-district game, when they will host Class 2A Capitol.

Parkview Baptist drops to 1-3 on the season with the loss.

ESJ led 21-14 at halftime. Monroe’s 25-yard touchdown pass to Marcus Robinson made it a two-touchdown lead for the Wildcats early in the second half. ESJ recovered a Parkview fumble inside their own five in the final minutes, halting a final rally attempt.

The Wildcats held leads of 14-0 and 21-7.