Friday Football Preview: Murrieta Valley at Vista Murrieta

The Nighthawks travel cross town Friday to meet rival Vista Murrieta.

The game will determine who will win the Southwestern League championship this year. The Broncos are ranked fifth in the state and are considered one of the top high school programs in Southern California.  

Murrieta Valley brings a 7-1 record to the contest.

Vista Murrieta is 3-5. Their record is merely cosmetic, as the Broncos were It’s all water under the bridge now; the player has been reinstated and the Bronco CIF playoffs are alive and well.  

Vista Murrieta has a well-balanced offensive attack led by quarterback Nick Stevens and running back S'ua Cravens, who rushed for 74 yards and three touchdowns in last weeks 45-24 win over Great Oak. Aaron Piecukonis and Kei-ron Long add depth and explosiveness to a very talented Bronco Offense. 

The Nighthawks have had dominating defensive performances this season but will be without two key starters Friday night. The players were suspended for one game for their involvement in a brawl that occurred in Murrieta Valley's coaching staff has put together a new defensive scheme that they feel will stop the Broncos. 

Murrieta Valley will need its running tandem of Jack Magpuaso and Jacob Augustine to once again fuel and ignite the Nighthawk offense.

Quarterback Andrew Blake had a magnificent performance against the Rams last Friday passing for 356 yards and three touchdowns. He has an array of talented receivers in Brandon Iacobellis, Jaleel Shabazz, Kale Novak and the multifaceted Magpuaso to choose from.  

The Nighthawks are at Vista Murrieta. Murrieta Mesa travels to Great Oak. Come out and support the efforts that all these players, coaches, cheer, dance and the bands put forth. You won’t regret it. Game time is 7 p.m. See you there!!

--Contributed by Charles Mckee

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