Chapman Gives Capistrano Valley a Lift

The third time was the charm for Capistrano Valley and its first-year coach, Jeff Veeder.

After dropping tough games to Aliso Niguel and Edison to start the season, the Cougars got into the win column Friday night with a 30-13 victory over Foothill in a nonleague game at Tustin High.

Senior running back Daniel Chapman led the way with 233 yards and one touchdown in 21 carries.

Chapman had 201 yards rushing in his first two games this year.

A good chunk of Chapman’s yards Friday came in the second quarter as Capistrano Valley (1-2) built a 17-0 lead.

After Jonathon Piraino intercepted a pass with 5:18 left in the half, Chapman ran for a 62-yard touchdown on the next play to put the Cougars ahead 17-0.

That carry put Chapman at 100 yards. He finished with 146 yards rushing in the first half.

Grant Melton gave Capistrano Valley a 23-0 lead early in the third quarter when he rushed for a three-yard touchdown.

Foothill (0-3) made a late run with two touchdowns, the second one, a 17-yard pass from Mike Castillo to Jordan Parsons, cutting the Cougar lead to 23-13 with 7:21 to play.

But Capistrano Valley’s defense stopped the Knights, and Dixon put it away with an 11-yard touchdown run with 1:24 left to play.