After a busy MLK Day Weekend in which some touring teams came to town, the SoCal Premier league is back on track with standings-relevant games.
And perhaps the most standings-relevant game will be Cathedral Catholic vs Torrey Pines. These two teams played last year when they weren’t in the same competition, and they tied. Right now the two teams come into the match 1-0 in the San Diego Varsity division; but had non-conference games last week.
Cathedral lost to Charlotte Catholic 34-19, while Torrey Pines beat NorCal team Bishop O’Dowd 33-7. O’Dowd also played a Cathedral side a couple of days later and Cathedral won that 54-31.
Playing those two matches was an education for the Cathedral team, which will be traveling North later in the season to play Jesuit Sacramento and De La Salle on Saturday and Monday.
“We took 30 players into the weekend and wanted to make sure we got to see everyone on the field and also understand different combinations so we are in a better position to plan and select for that [NorCal] trip,” said Head Coach Matt Hawkins.
They also learned a lot. Hawkins called the Charlotte clash “a fantastic experience,” adding: “we are really grateful that we had the opportunity to host them. It was the best high school game I have had the good fortune to watch.”
The loss exposed a few deficiencies, and this week they’ve been working on them. Hawkins added that Charlotte Catholic provided a benchmark of where they want to be by the end of the season.
For now, it’s about facing rivals Torrey Pines.
“As always it’s more about controlling the emotions and just playing rugby,” Hawkins said.
TP won their only league game in a close one 21-15 over a very tough La Costa Canyon. No shame there, and in fact it was a good reminder that no one is going to let you win.
“We’re quietly confident,” said Head Coach Matty Sandoval. “We are finally healthy and made some changes to tighten up our midfield defense.”
Sandoval added that he thinks Torrey Pines has the advantage in the forwards, but Cathedral has three USA U18 players in their backline.
“Our kick-chase took a big step forward against O’Dowd, and out tackling was our best of the season,” continued Sandoval. “It should be a good matchup, our grit vs. their skill; our defensive scheme vs. their athleticism. I think physicality will play a big role.”
