SOUTH COAST LEAGUE BASKETBALL ROUNDUP : Capistrano Valley Defense Shuts Down Dana Hills

The Capistrano Valley High School basketball team’s defensive play in the third quarter was the key to a 64-37 victory over Dana Hills Friday at Saddleback College.

“The third quarter was the name of the game,” Capistrano Valley Coach Mark Thornton said.

The ninth-ranked Cougars (19-4, 6-1) led at the half, 23-20. But in the third quarter, Capistrano Valley outscored the Dolphins, 23-6, to ensure the victory.

Junior guard Tom Airey gave Capistrano Valley a 31-22 lead on the second of his three three-point baskets with 6 minutes 42 seconds remaining in the third quarter. Airey scored 17 points on five three-point baskets and two technical free throws.

The Cougars ran a full-court, man-to-man pressure defense that kept Dana Hills from taking shots from the corners.