Newport Harbor Applies the Brakes to University’s Comeback Attempts

Brett Hlista hauled in a 15-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Ryan Smith early in the fourth quarter to lift Newport Harbor to a 13-10 Sea View League victory over University Friday night at Irvine High.

Newport Harbor, ranked No. 1 in the Southern Section Division IV and seventh in the county, had to turn back two challenges by University in the final four minutes.

Newport Harbor (5-0, 2-0 in league) was led by Chris Edwards, who rushed for 75 yards in 14 carries and scored one touchdown.

The Sailors moved ahead, 13-10, on Smith’s touchdown pass to Hlista with 9:16 remaining in the game.

University (0-5, 0-2) recovered a fumble with 3:40 left, but the Trojans’ drive stalled at their 45 yard line.

University also got the ball with 14 seconds remaining, but the game ended after four incomplete passes.

The Trojans had taken a 10-6 lead on a five-yard touchdown run by Ricco Roberson with 2:26 left in the third quarter.

Jeff Rosenberger kicked a 38-yard field goal with three seconds left in the first half to cut Newport Harbor’s lead to 6-3.

The Sailors took a 6-0 lead on a 15-yard touchdown run by Edwards with 10:10 left in the first half. The PAT try was blocked.