The comeback didn’t happen this time.

Granite Bay ran out to an early lead and held on against the cardiac kids from Belmont Shore, capping a 12-week run as the #1-ranked HS Club team with a 29-9 victory in the national championship final.

Paced by a strong forward effort and quick ball Granite Bay surged to a 14-0 lead. Belmont Shore crept back, wisely taking penalties when they were on offer and inched closer at 14-6.

But the Granite Bay powerhouse finally showed itself. They linked it all together, and moved to 24-6 in the second half.

That was time for the comeback and several times Belmont Shore found space for a break down the sidelines. In almost every other game they played that would have resulted in a try. But Granite Bay’s cover defense was superb, and not only that, the rest of the defense reorganized well to hold firm. Belmont Shore got another penalty, but that was all.

In other club action, the San Diego Mustangs broke out with one of their best performances, handling a very physical and dynamic Tempe team 32-20. Tempe scored four tries, but converted none, while San Diego controlled field position well enough to win.