TEMECULA – With a sweeping scoreline of 4-1, the Great Oak Wolfpack boys’ soccer team solidified the start of their playoff aspirations, taking down Northview in a compelling first-round CIF Southern Section matchup. In a performance that mirrored their season-long dominance, where they secured the Southwestern League title with a remarkable 8-1-1 record, the Wolfpack’s victory was both decisive and stylistic. Sophomore striker, Nico Powell, led the charge with two spectacular goals.

“Our varsity boys continued where they left off in winning the league, playing attacking soccer,” said Coach Taylor. “The message has been simple throughout the process, continue doing what you do best, believe in yourselves and the technical abilities each of you have. Along with a good work ethic – it will take us far.”

Great Oak sophomore, Nico Powell (9), contributed 2 of the 4 goals against Northview in CIF Rd 1Playoff match. Valley News/Rob Davis Photography

This triumph extends Great Oak’s impressive season record to 18 wins, 2 draws, and only 2 losses. The home playoff victory against Northview in the Division 3 brackets is a testament to their preparedness, skill, and ambition.

The Wolfpack’s journey continues as they host the venerable Thousand Oaks Lancers for the upcoming playoff match Friday, Feb. 9, at 5 PM. The Lancers, mirroring Great Oak’s victorious narrative, won their first playoff match against Chaffey with a score of 3-1. With the Miramonte League title in their trophy case and a strong 13-8-2 overall record, the Lancers are set to be impressive opponents.

For Great Oak fans and sports enthusiasts alike, live brackets and game developments can be tracked on the CIF-SS website at www.cifss.org.

Report scores/stats/updates by sending them to the Valley News Sports Department via email at sports@reedermedia.com.

JP Raineri
JP Raineri

JP is an award-winning multimedia journalist, and head of the Sports Department for the Valley News. Over his time in the Temecula Valley, JP, a former Southwestern League head baseball coach, was also an on-air radio personality at Q103.3, KATY 101.3, Hot 103.9, and was a television host for the Outdoor Channel. When not covering local, or national sports, JP also serves as an Associate Baseball Scout with NSR.