November 17, 2024

OC Sports Zone: Community First

Foothill football team gets ready to take on No. 4 seeded Aliso Niguel in opening round of CIF playoffs

Some of the Foothill players celebrate after winning the North Hills League title with a victory over El Dorado Thursday night at Tustin. (Photo: Fernando M. Donado, For OC Sports Zone)

Foothill’s football team had quite a second half of the season, capturing the North Hills League championship with three consecutive victories, including a 35-17 victory over El Dorado Thursday.

Now, the Knights (4-6 overall) hope to carry that momentum into the CIF Division 9 playoffs.

Foothill is matched up against Aliso Niguel, the fourth seeded team in the division, Friday night at 7 at Tustin High. Coach Kurt Westling’s team is 9-1 overall and finished second in the Sea View League with a 3-1 record.

“Aliso is a very good football team,” said Foothill Coach Doug Case. “We knew it was going to either them, Segerstrom or Orange.

“This should be a great game. Both teams are playing their best going into the playoffs. Defense is going to be the difference in this one. Who can stop who.

“The production by (Roman) Pistone and (JD) Curran will be a huge factor if the Knights are going to move on. Win or turn in your pads.”

CIF FOOTBALL PLAYOFF BRACKETS FOR EVERY DIVISION