Irvine football team solidifies CIF playoff hopes with 49-19 PCL victory over Portola

Ryan Ellis picks up yards Friday night for Irvine. (Photo courtesy James Tomlin).

Irvine’s football team moved into sole possession of second place with a 49-19 Pacific Coast League victory over Portola Friday night at Irvine Stadium.

To see the slide show, please click on the first photo.

Irvine quarterback Marc Filia races toward the end zone Friday night.

Portola's Joey Omar looks for an open lane Friday night.

Portola's Joey Omar is tackled by Irvine's Dylan Stricker.

Irvine's defense makes one of its many big plays Friday night.

Russell Sung of Portola tries to picks up yards.

The Vaqueros (4-5, 3-1) can most likely clinch a CIF playoff berth with a victory over Northwood (2-2) Friday night. Beckman (2-2) is also in the playoff hunt.

“Our offense really clicked last night rushing for 363 yards and passing for 133,” said Coach Erik Terry.  “Defensively we held the Bulldogs to 19 points with a strong effort from our defensive line and linebackers.

“We are now sitting in sole possession of second place.  We will work hard to prepare our players this week so we have an opportunity to hold onto that standing.  I believe if we end the season in second place in the PCL we have a great chance to extend our season into the CIF Division 11 playoffs.”

Marc Filia hits Jacob Haley on a 35yd TD to put the Vaqueros up 21-6 w/ 6:06 left in half. @ocvarsity @OCSportsZone pic.twitter.com/neH6cUKEBR

— Irvine Vaqueros (@VaqueroFootball) October 20, 2018

Irvine’s last playoff appearance was in 2014 when the Vaqueros fell to Villa Park in the opening round.

Portola (2-7, 0-4) finishes the season Friday night against Woodbridge.