“I think the kids know what’s at stake. They hear about the Covina game every day. If you don’t play well, if you overlook, don’t play hard and lose focus, then you’re done. I don’t think we’re having any type of problem from a mental aspect.” — West Covina coach Mike Maggiore on facing the Chiefs.

By Aram Tolegian, staff writer
West Covina, the top seed in the Southeast Division, should get a bit more of a challenge Friday in the second round against Santa Fe. The Bulldogs (10-1) had little trouble with Bellflower last week, but Santa Fe brings a defense capable of giving West Covina some resistance, at least for a little while.
“They have a very tough defense,” Maggiore said of the Chiefs, who held Bonita and Charter Oak to season-low point totals this season. “They play extremely hard and they’re really well-coached. They play the run well, so it’s going to be a challenge for our guys.”

Santa Fe showed it can be dangerous in last week’s win over Burbank. The Chiefs weren’t picked by many to win but came away with a 28-14 victory. Questions about their offense being inept were answered, too.

“They looked a lot better on offense,” Maggiore said. “They moved the ball on Burbank. Their offense is better than it was earlier in the season.”

Maggiore said overconfidence won’t be a factor for West Covina if Monday’s practice was any indicator. Despite being the No. 1 seed, the Bulldogs have yet to be matched up with anybody that will give fans a sense of doubt about the game’s outcome.

“I think the kids know what’s at stake,” Maggiore said. “They hear about the Covina game every day. If you don’t play well, if you overlook, don’t play hard and lose focus, then you’re done. I don’t think we’re having any type of problem from a mental aspect.”