The West High Warriors finished game one of the 2014 CIF Playoffs with a solid victory. On Friday November 14, 2014 West defeated the Santa Monica Vikings with a final score of 34-18. After a perfect 10-0 record during the regular season, West went into the game feeling confident and determined.

Students filled the student section in their all black attire, to support the football team. They were continuously cheering to encourage the team and keep their spirits high. Ronan Todd (12) said “the students chanting really pumped up the team and I think it might’ve given them a confidence boost to play better.”

In the first quarter of the game, West was only up by one point, leading the game with a close score of 7-6. The Vikings put up a good fight against the Warriors, but Michael Ezer (9) said “the defense really did their job well and they kept Santa Monica away from the end-zone.” Going into the second quarter the Warriors knew they had to score in order to increase and secure their lead.  They didn’t allow the Vikings to score in the second quarter and the Warriors finished the quarter with a score of 21-6.

The Vikings, however, made a quick comeback in the third quarter when they scored two more touchdowns. Wide receiver, Declan O’brien (10) said, “our team knew we had to step up and gain control defensively. [The Warriors] stopped [the Vikings] from scoring and the offense came in and [scored] a few more touchdowns.” By the fourth quarter, the Warriors stopped their opponents from gaining anymore points and they scored a last minute touchdown. Rounding out their first game in the playoffs, the Warriors are one step closer to the CIF title. Next week, West will take on Calabasas in game two of the CIF Playoffs at home. The anticipation for next week’s game is already present and the Warriors are hopeful for another successful game.