MidValleySports.Com

By Rich Whittington

(South Pasadena) – The South Pasadena Tigers jumped out to an early lead, and never looked back, defeating the visiting San Marcos Royals, 42-17, Friday evening, earning the opportunity to advance to the second round of the CIF Division 11 playoffs.

The Tigers were led by senior running back Trey Freking, who carried the ball 21 times for 276 yards and three scores. Additionally, Freking was on the receiving end of a 25-yard scoring strike from quarterback Andrew Nott.

South Pasadena wasted little time getting on the board, scoring on its first two possessions of the contest. The first was a 6-yard Freking touchdown blast. The second was a 17- yard Freking rush. The PAT’s were successfully converted by Nicholas Dragonas, making the score 14-0 after one quarter of play.

The Tigers continued their scoring run into the second quarter, when Nott and Freking connected for their previously mentioned passing touchdown. A third successful Dragonas extra point made the score 21-0 with 10:06 remaining in the game’s opening half.

San Marcos got on the board on their next possession. After a 28-yard kickoff return by Isaac Murillo, the Royals put together an 8 play, 80-yard drive that ended with a 4-yard touchdown run by running back Cole Dominguez. The PAT was added by Austin Downing making the score 21-7 with 5:48 remaining until halftime.

The Tigers wasted little time re-extending their lead. On their next play from scrimmage, Freking broke loose for an 80-yard scoring run. A fourth Dragonas PAT increased the lead to 28-7, with 5:32 remaining in the half.

San Marcos added their second score on their next possession, when quarterback Hayden Feleay found
found running back Brody Green for a 14-yard scoring strike. A second Downing PAT was added and it was 28-14 at halftime.

The Royals opened the scoring in the third quarter, driving the ball 87 yards before settling for a 27-yard Downing field goal and it was 28-17 with 8:06 remaining in the third quarter.

South Pasadena added two more touchdowns, thanks to a pair of 1-yard scores by Rick Matsuda. Two more kicks by Dragonas made the final score 42-17.

South Pasadena improved to 7-4 and moves on to the second round of the CIF Division 11 playoffs. The Tigers will travel to Palmdale High School where they will face the 6-5 Falcons. Kickoff for this contest is scheduled for 7:00PM. San Marcos finishes the 2025 season with a record of 4-7, 3-2 in Tri-County League play.