HS FOOT: Championships feature local rematches

Two Southern Section football championships this weekend involve local teams squaring off in rematches from the regular season, as Oaks Christian plays host to Westlake in the Northern Division final on Friday, and Sierra Canyon plays host to Paraclete on Saturday at Granada Hills High.

In the regular season, Westlake defeated Oaks Christian 31-12 in a Marmonte League game, and Paraclete defeated Sierra Canyon 22-12 in an Alpha game.

A capacity crowd is expected at Oaks Christian.

"I love playing in front of big crowds. It's one of the best feelings in the world," Westlake kicker Alex Ball said.

Oaks Christian has won 31 of 32 playoff games, but this is the Lions' first year in a large division after moving up from the lightly regarded Northwest Division.

"We know Westlake is a great team with tremendous talent, and we've been waiting to play them again," Oaks Christian receiver Jordan Payton said. "Now it's here, and we have to play our best if we want the right outcome."

Sierra Canyon, ranked No. 1 in Cal-Hi Sports' Div. IV South bowl rankings, figures to get a state berth if the Trailblazers can upset Paraclete.

"We're excited about the challenge," Sierra Canyon coach Jon Ellinghouse said. "We walked off the field four weeks ago knowing we played them tough. We're excited about playing them again. This should be a great game and a great atmosphere."