Edison Falls to Palos Verdes in CIF-SS Semifinals as Sea Kings Control Rematch, Score 23-10 (2025)

Palos Verdes Estates – Kaye Field (PVHS)

Edison’s postseason run came to an end Friday night, as the Chargers fell 23–10 to Palos Verdes in the CIF-SS Division 3 semifinals — a rematch on the same field where Edison stunned the Sea Kings back in September. This time, though, the late-game magic simply wasn’t there.

Edison hung around into the fourth quarter despite an inconsistent offensive rhythm and long stretches where Palos Verdes controlled the pace. Much like the first meeting, the Chargers entered the fourth down 13 and backed up in their own territory. And just like that night, they produced a huge defensive stop when they needed it most, stripping the ball at the goal line to stay alive. But unlike September, they couldn’t finish the comeback.

Head coach Jeff Grady summed it up clearly: “We just couldn’t seem to put anything together on offense… you have to against a team like that.” Palos Verdes’ strategy was simple and effective — run the ball, drain the clock, and keep the Chargers’ offense watching from the sideline.

Palos Verdes quarterback Ryan Rakowski played a central role, accounting for two touchdowns and 185 total yards. The Sea Kings struck early after a muffed punt set up a short Rakowski scoring run, but Edison responded quickly. A 35-yard catch from Teo Hampton ignited a three-play drive capped by Maddox Thomas’ 18-yard touchdown.

From there, the game slowly tilted toward Palos Verdes. A second-quarter field goal made it 10–7 at halftime, and a 90-yard drive to open the third extended the lead. Edison managed a Crue Bradshaw 36-yard field goal, but Rakowski answered with a deep 48-yard strike to Morley Boyd to push the margin to 23–10.

Edison’s last true chance came on a 21-play march that reached the Palos Verdes 14, but penalties and three end-zone incompletions wiped away the rally. As quarterback Sam Thomson put it, “I’m proud of my guys and the way they fought, but it wasn’t enough today.”

The Chargers finished their season 7–6, fighting until the final whistle. As receiver Matthew Auau said afterward, “Everybody fought their butts off… I just hope the younger guys next year finish the job.”