El Dorado football beats King in CIF-SS semifinals with stunning finish in 2OTs – Orange County Register

El Dorado’s incredible victory over King in Placentia brought the Golden Hawks closer to a spot in the CIF Division 7 championship game. The game ended with a 30-29 victory in the second overtime, thanks to Tanner Fronaberger, who managed to block the King extra point kick, causing it to hit the crossbar and bounce away.

The Golden Hawks (8-5) made a dramatic comeback after trailing 16-3 for the better part of three quarters. They finally broke through when quarterback Nate Bento connected with Nathan Meek for a 15-yard touchdown with 4:04 left in the game.

El Dorado forced another punt and then embarked on a patient possession that ultimately led to an impressive 23-yard touchdown by Isiaih Quintero, securing the Golden Hawks’ place in the finals.

The incredible victory came amidst an exceptional season, especially for Quintero, who suffered a broken fibula earlier in the season. Now cleared to play, Quintero’s return to the game not only revived El Dorado’s offense but also changed the course of the season.

El Dorado will compete against Mayfair on Saturday, Nov. 25, marking its first time advancing to the finals since 2007.

The Golden Hawks’ exceptional defense held strong after King’s strong first half performance. King quarterback, Joshua Harper, who had been sharp in the first half, struggled in the second half, completing only one pass for minus-2 yards and being intercepted twice.

The victory was an incredible turnaround for El Dorado, especially considering the team’s losing streak before LaMonda took over as head coach. The journey from a 17-game losing streak to the CIF-SS title game is a testament to the team’s resilience and determination.