By Aram Tolegian
West Covina defensive end Justin Hornsby underwent two hours of surgery on Saturday to treat a broken tibia and fibula in his left leg after suffering the major injury in the fourth quarter of Friday’s 21-7 win over South Hills.

Hornsby had to be taken off the field on a stretcher and treated on site by paramedics before being transported to the hospital.

“He will be fine and fully recovered with time and rehab,” West Covina coach Mike Maggiore said via text message. “Surgery was textbook. He is in good spirits.

“What bothers me is the kid has had crappy luck and a really unfortunate two years. This was just a freak thing that happened. He planted his foot and his body got twisted.”

Hornsby transferred to West Covina from Rancho Verde prior to last season but was ruled ineligible by CIF because he lived in South Hills’ school district. After sitting out the season, Hornsby figured to be one of the top defensive players in the Valley.

“He is a good play, but an outstanding young man that is a leader on our team and on our campus,” Maggiore said. “He is really well-liked, bright and personable.”

Hornsby was hoping to leave the hospital on Monday night.