Football: Best game could be Vista Murrieta-Upland
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The best football playoff game in Southern California on Friday night could be the battle of unbeatens _ host Vista Murrieta vs. Upland in the Inland Division semifinal.
“This game is a tall order. That program is a win program,” Upland Coach Tim Salter said of Vista Murrieta.
Salter is being kind. His own program has won three section titles and boasts one of the best offenses in the Southland.
No opponent thus far has figured out how to stop Upland’s ability to run and pass with equal effectiveness behind running back Donta Abron Jr. and receiver Kenny Lawler. Add fullback Christian Powell and quarterback Nate Romine, and you have a convergence of the stars.
But Vista Murrieta has produced lots of sacks this season, and its defense is capable of coming up with big plays. Vista Murrieta is 12-0 on the field when taking away five forfeit wins because of an ineligible player.
The Inland Division’s final four teams of Corona Centennial, Rancho Cucamonga, Upland and Vista Murrieta can match up against any division.
“We’ve all won good games against top schools,” Salter said. “There are four really good football teams left.”
-- Eric Sondheimer