Sailors claim CIF title

For the full story and more photos, see Page A7.

COSTA MESA -- Newport Harbor High School won the CIF Southern Section Division VI football championship Saturday, holding off Valencia High School of Placentia, 28-21, in front of a near-capacity crowd at Orange Coast College.

It was the fourth CIF football title in the Sailors’ history, and the team’s first since the 1999 season. The Tars lost in the championship game in 2004 and 2000.

The Sailors (11-3), who shared the Sea View League title with Aliso Niguel and Laguna Hills high schools, scored 21 consecutive points in the second half to secure the victory. Quarterback Tom Jackson threw for three touchdowns and ran for another to lead the offensive attack.

Newport Harbor went ahead for good when Jarrett Daniel caught a 21-yard touchdown pass from Jackson late in the third quarter. Delano McKenzie added a two-yard scoring reception in the fourth quarter that proved to be the winner.

Valencia (13-2) had a chance to tie the score in the final moments of the game, driving to near midfield. But Newport Harbor strong safety James Coder intercepted Tigers quarterback Luis Cruz’s pass, securing the victory and sparking a celebration on the Sailors’ sideline.

Newport Harbor Coach Jeff Brinkley celebrates after his team defeated Valencia, 28-21, in the CIF Southern Section Division VI championship game. 20051211irbma8knPHOTOS BY KENT TREPTOW / DAILY PILOT(LA)Newport Harbor’s James Coder returns his game-ending interception as Valencia’s Joe Becerra tries to stop him at Orange Coast College on Saturday. 20051211irbm9ykn(LA)Newport Harbor Coach Jeff Brinkley celebrates after his team defeated Valencia, 28-21, in the CIF Southern Section Division VI championship game. PHOTOS BY KENT TREPTOW / DAILY PILOT