Woodbridge was early PCL favorite but other teams could be fighting for title too

Woodbridge is led by (from left) Kyle Hurry, Jacob Nash, Colin Turner and Mathew Ploof.

It seemed the consensus going into the season was that Woodbridge’s football team would be the favorite to win the Pacific Coast League title.

The Warriors were the second best team in the league next to Corona del Mar, which has moved to the Sunset League and had some talented players returning.

But Woodbridge, playing a tough non-league schedule has been up and down and brings a 2-3 record into Friday’s league opener with Irvine (1-4) at Irvine Stadium.

Most of the Irvine teams have struggled. Only two have winning records, which could mean the league title race could be up for grabs.

Northwood (4-1) has the best record of the Irvine teams followed by Beckman (3-2) and Portola (2-3). University is 1-4, but its only win was by forfeit.

Woodbridge Coach Rick Gibson was asked about the league race a few weeks ago and said that every team will be in the running for the title.

“I think this is the most well balanced league around,” Gibson said. “People can say what they think but I think if you’re asking me, Irvine is going to be a very difficult team to play, I think Beckman is going to get really good, University with this group of guys will gel by the time league rolls around with a new coach and new system.

“Portola has two years under the direction of Peter (Abe) and his staff so this is their third year together so they will be excellent and Northwood is vastly improved as well.

“You ask me who the favorite was. I would say any of the six teams could be league champion. I think that’s the beauty of the league.”

In the other league games, Beckman hosts Portola Thursday night at Tustin and University hosts Northwood Friday night.