Mission Viejo’s Defense Shuts Down Sunny Hills

After watching his Mission Viejo squad dominate Sunny Hills in a 25-0 victory at Mission Viejo High Thursday night, Diablo Coach Marty Spalding could have boasted about his team’s return to prominence.

Spalding could have trumpeted the efforts of his defense, which held Sunny Hills to one first down and 11 yards total offense in the first half.

He could have lauded the production of his running game, which rolled up 221 yards rushing and three touchdowns in 51 carries, keeping the Lancer offense on the sideline.

But the first-year coach played it cool.

“We just want to make absolutely sure the boys are focused on trying to improve every week,” Spalding said. “I think they’re starting to feel a little better about themselves.”

The Diablos (3-1) were smarting two weeks ago after fourth-ranked Irvine defeated Mission Viejo, 35-7.

But Mission Viejo defeated Rancho Alamitos, 25-7, last week, and the defense continued its strong play against Sunny Hills.

The Lancers (1-3) managed only 88 yards total offense, and didn’t move the ball into Mission Viejo territory until the fourth quarter.

Sunny Hills’ best chance to score came midway through the fourth quarter, when the Lancers faced a fourth-and-goal at the four. Diablo linebacker T.J. Kopkash stopped Sunny Hills running back Henry Naliielua at the two to preserve the shutout.

“The defense played excellent tonight,” Spalding said. “Offensively, we had plenty of opportunities, but we had poor execution in some situations, took some penalties and had some brain fades.”

Mission Viejo tailback John Higashi led the offense, rushing for 98 yards and two touchdowns in 25 carries. Fullback Mike Myers rushed for 81 yards in nine carries.

Quarterback Brad Weekes completed six of 12 passes for 66 yards, and wide receiver Matt Denny caught four passes for 33 yards.

Denny also helped short-circuit the Lancer passing game, intercepting two passes from Brad Knyal.

Mission Viejo scored the game’s first points when Sunny Hills lined up for a punt on its 20, then snapped the ball through the end zone.

Mission Viejo took the ensuing free kick and marched 73 yards in 14 plays to score on a one-yard touchdown run by Higashi.