EL CAJON — The CIF-San Diego Section Division II football playoffs got off to a thrilling start, with several teams seeing their championship hopes dashed in the opening round. The Imperial High football team was one of the casualties, falling just short in a 28-26 loss to Christian High of El Cajon.
The Patriots came out strong, building a 21-7 halftime lead that left Imperial reeling. However, the Tigers refused to give up, mounting a fierce comeback in the second half that saw them score 19 points and come within two points of the lead.
Unfortunately, it wasn't enough, as Christian High held on for the win and advanced to the next round of the playoffs. The loss marked the end of the road for Imperial, who had been looking to make a deep run in the CIF-San Diego Section Division II tournament.
The Scots and 'Dogs weren't the only ones to fall in the opening round, as several other teams saw their championship hopes extinguished. The playoffs continue this week, with the remaining teams vying for a spot in the championship game.