In a decisive playoff matchup on Friday, Pacifica football showcased its strength by defeating El Rancho 35-14 in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 10 playoffs. The Mariners, now with an 8-3 record, will face Liberty in the next round after Liberty”s narrow win over West Torrance.
The scoring began early for Pacifica when Ma”kai Brown rushed for a 3-yard touchdown on the Mariners” opening drive. An interception by Zack Dickison shortly after gave Pacifica the advantage at midfield, allowing quarterback James Anema to connect with Eli Sandoval for a remarkable 50-yard touchdown pass.
El Rancho quickly responded, as quarterback Adrian Lopez, who had a mixed regular season with 11 touchdowns and 11 interceptions, threw a 17-yard touchdown pass to Jackson Delight. However, Pacifica countered with a significant play. Anema launched a 47-yard pass to David Carlsson, setting up Brown again, who scored from 13 yards out just before the end of the first quarter.
After that strong start, the game”s momentum shifted dramatically in favor of the Mariners. Over the next three quarters, Pacifica”s defense intercepted three more passes and Landon Manley recovered two fumbles, including a critical strip sack at the Pacifica 19-yard line. Coach Kyle Murphy credited their unconventional practice strategies for success against El Rancho”s hurry-up offense, stating, “We ended up having two offenses on scout team and we ended up running them back to back and I think that absolutely helped them.” He emphasized the team”s improvement and communication throughout the game.
One of the pivotal moments came late in the first half when Max Salas intercepted a Lopez pass in the end zone, preserving Pacifica”s lead at 21-7 going into halftime. In the third quarter, Carlsson made another interception, giving Pacifica an opportunity to extend their lead.
Jordan Morales added to the defensive effort by securing the fourth interception. His versatility in coverage provided Lopez with various looks, complicating El Rancho”s offensive strategies. Murphy acknowledged El Rancho”s adaptability, noting their ability to adjust their defensive schemes.
The score remained 21-7 until the final quarter, when Pacifica capitalized on a turnover to score again. After regaining possession following a strip sack, Carlsson caught a 42-yard pass, leading to Sandoval”s 28-yard touchdown reception with 7:17 left on the clock. Brown capped off his impressive performance, which included 109 rushing yards, with a 53-yard touchdown run that sealed the victory for Pacifica.
This playoff win sets the stage for an exciting matchup against Liberty, as Pacifica aims to continue its playoff run.
