HIGH SCHOOL NOTEBOOK

Van Nuys has protested the ejection of middle linebacker Jose Zapata from Friday’s 32-27 loss to San Fernando. A ruling by the City Section is expected later this week.

Zapata was ejected during the third quarter after being charged with his second unsportsmanlike conduct penalty.

“Jose was unfairly singled out,” Coach Mark Pomerantz said. “In our opinion, the incident was initiated by the official. He goaded Jose into a flag and I don’t see how he can do that.”

Zapata’s first unsportsmanlike conduct penalty came after he was slow unpiling after a fumble recovery, Pomerantz said.

The game was marred by 28 penalties, including 16 against unbeaten San Fernando, which was given a scare by the Wolves (1-7).

“It was one of those games where there were flags everywhere,” Coach Sean Blunt of San Fernando said. “Our offense had only six penalties in seven games, then all of sudden, we were getting big runs called back.”

Van Nuys, which has gone to the wishbone formation the last two games, benefited from its first two touchdown passes of the season. On one, junior quarterback Luis Arreola caught a pass from running back Max Parra, who was the quarterback until the change to the wishbone.

“Luis is our quarterback of the future and Max is a good runner,” Pomerantz said.

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The Taft-Chatsworth West Valley League game at Chatsworth on Thursday will be televised live by Fox Sports West 2. Game time is 7 p.m.