Irvine football players celebrate advancing to the CIF playoffs by eating pizza and watching game films

Irvine football players got together Sunday at the Filia house to celebrate a trip to the CIF playoffs.

Irvine High football players got the word they were hoping for Sunday when they found out the Vaqueros were advancing to the CIF Division 11 playoffs.

Irvine, which tied for second in the Pacific Coast League, will host Ocean View Friday at 7 p.m. at Irvine Stadium.

Vaquero quarterback Marc Filia heard about the Vaqueros draw and figured a good way to celebrate a trip to the CIF playoffs would be, with the blessing of his parents, to invite his teammates over to the Filia house to eat pizza and watch game films.

“I thought it was a great idea by Marc Filia to invite his teammates over to watch some Ocean View film since we are not allowed to meet with them on Sundays,” said Irvine Coach Erik Terry.

“Our players are excited about the opportunity to extend our season and continue making memories together.  We know we did not play our best game last Friday so to have another game to prove to ourselves how good we can be is exciting.”

Northwood defeated Irvine 21-13 in the PCL finale Friday night, leaving both teams tied for second place. But since Irvine and Northwood are in different playoff divisions, both squads advanced to the playoffs.

Northwood plays Rancho Alamitos Friday night at Bolsa Grande High in the Division 12 bracket.

It’s the first time in the playoffs since 2014 for both Irvine and Northwood.

CIF FOOTBALL BRACKETS FOR ALL DIVISIONS