High school football fans were treated to an action-packed semifinals weekend as six local teams battled for a spot in the championship games across various divisions. The highlight came from an exciting all-area matchup between Ventura and Agoura in Division 6, alongside Pacifica, Oaks Christian, Santa Paula, and Grace trying to secure their own paths to the title games.
The standout moment of the weekend occurred when Ventura defeated Agoura 28-14, successfully advancing to the Division 6 championship. The Cougars showcased their skill and determination, with Tristan Savage scoring a critical 1-yard touchdown run late in the fourth quarter, capping off an 80-yard drive that took six minutes off the clock. This win marks a significant achievement for the Ventura squad, setting the stage for a championship showdown.
In another thrilling semifinal, Grace edged out Coachella Valley 49-42, setting up a Division 12 final against local rival Santa Paula. Grace’s triumph was marked by a last-minute touchdown from Jake Williams, demonstrating the intensity and competitiveness that has characterized their season. The Lancers will play as the home team in the final, potentially at Moorpark College or Moorpark High.
Pacifica continued its perfect season with a commanding 42-24 win over Chino Hills in the Division 3 semifinal. The Tritons, now boasting a record of 13-0, are on a quest to defend their CIF-SS Division 4 title as they prepare to vie for the Division 3 crown.
In contrast, Oaks Christian faced a disappointing defeat, falling to La Habra 20-7 in the Division 4 semifinals. The loss reflects a challenging season for Oaks Christian, who now looks ahead to next year.
Santa Paula managed to reach the Division 12 finals as well, overcoming Bellflower 17-14 with Luis Ventura’s clutch field goal in the final seconds. This victory adds to the excitement for the upcoming championship games as the local teams gear up for fierce competition.
Overall, the semifinals showcased the talent and resilience of local high school football teams, with a bright outlook for the final matchups ahead. From close comebacks to defining victories, each team displayed remarkable skill and sportsmanship, ensuring an exhilarating championship season for the local fans.