For Barnes family, it’s a night to remember

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Question: How often do you see a father and son upset two Times’ top-25 teams in the same night?

Answer: Not very.

It was probably the first time ever, but that’s what happened Friday. John Barnes, in his 29th season as coach at Los Alamitos, pulled an upset of No. 15 Edison in the Sunset League opener, 13-9, on the strength of a running game that appeared out of nowhere -- thanks to sophomore Brantynn Washington.

But that was child’s play compared to what Tesoro accomplished under the guidance of Barnes’ son, Brian Barnes. The Titans shocked No. 19 San Clemente, 16-13, when Ferras Albitar scored from two yards as time ran out. They didn’t even bother kicking an extra point.

Young Brian -- in his first season at Tesoro -- called it ‘the biggest win in the school’s history,’ which probably wouldn’t be a stretch if not for that game played Dec. 10, 2004, when Tesoro defeated Western for the Southern Section Division IX title. Or Dec. 9, 2005, when Tesoro defeated Northwood for a second consecutive championship.

There’s no doubt this was the biggest regular season victory in school history, and the biggest victory in Brian’s career. But until the Titans beat Mission Viejo (they play in the season finale) while Bob Johnson is the coach, it’s unlikely that a league victory will replace those title games in the history books.

But it sure comes close, and right now, it sure feels better.

- Martin Henderson