PHOTOS: Beckman remains in playoff hunt with victory over Uni

Justin Sevilla gains yards for Beckman in Friday’s game vs. University. (Photos courtesy Mark Bausman/For OC Sports Zone)

It was a successful senior night for Beckman’s football team Friday night.

The Patriots defeated University 30-14 in a Pacific Valley League game at Tustin to remain in the hunt for the CIF playoffs.

“The varsity team notched a terrific win on senior night,” said Beckman Coach Marcello Giuliano.

No. 19 Aiden Fordyce of Beckman intercepts a pass. No. 12 is Justin Sevilla.

Noah Scherson of University tries to bring down Justin Sevilla of Beckman.

University's defense makes a stop against Beckman.

University quarterback Ziyad Merchant scores a touchdown.

Beckman's Aiden Fordyce hauls in a touchdown catch.

Beckman's Matthew Keyser puts the pressure on the University quarterback Ziyad Merchant

Alex Diego kicks a field goal for Beckman.

Beckman (2-7, 1-1) was led by senior Aiden Fordyce who had two touchdowns, two interceptions and a recovered onside kick.

“He was literally everywhere on the field and played with great energy,” Giuliano said.

“Justin Sevilla also contributed an interception on defense and several key receptions on the offense that helped set up scoring opportunities. Jonathan Sandoval rushed for a season-high 125 yards and two TDs and freshman quarterback Nick Molina completed 70 percent of his passes and threw for two TDs. It was a great all-around team victory.”

Giuliano said the Patriots know they need to defeat Northwood Thursday night at Irvine Stadium in order to advance to the playoffs.

“The playoff picture is pretty simple: we need to win this Thursday in order to have the opportunity,” he said. “Like we told our kids, just like the MLB and NBA, this is a play-in game; win or go home.”

University (2-7, 0-2) battled, said Coach Vince Mesa.

“We played hard and fought until the end, some key turnovers hurt us in the game,” he said. “We had good performances from several players, and many fought through injury. It was a game we felt we had a chance to win, but in the end, we didn’t put it all together. Beckman played a good game, hats off to them.”