CdM, JSerra one big clash

On paper, today’s CIF Southern California Division II Regional Championships semifinal at Aliso Niguel High appears to be the premiere matchup of Orange County teams.

But the match might not have Corona del Mar (25-1-1) and JSerra (25-4-1) at full strength when the teams begin at 4:15 p.m. Sea Kings’ first-year coach George Larsen said CdM might be without freshman Jack McBean and the Lions may be missing two of their players because of commitments to their regional teams in the Olympic Development Program National Championships in Arizona, which start on Friday.

Even if the Sea Kings have their players ready to go, it will be a tough match, Larsen said. JSerra is the CIF Southern Section Division I champ. CdM won Division IV, its first boys’ soccer section title.

“I think a lot of people are looking at this as the big OC showdown,” Larsen said. “But based on what I’ve seen on Friday and Tuesday, the boys are really tired. But I know they’ll get up for this game. It’s a lot to ask players to play these type of games in these many days. But they’ll go fight it out. They are playing a real good team. I’m sure it will bring out the best in them.”

The Sea Kings earned a thrilling victory Tuesday to advance, as they won at Castle Park of Chula Vista, 5-4, on penalty kicks.

Junior Brian Ford ended the match as the extra shooter, just after sophomore goalkeeper Connor Gaal made a huge save.

Sophomore Jack Gorab had a goal and an assist during regulation, that ended at 2-2. He also scored during the penalty-kick shootout.

Senior Reed Williams, who is bound for UCLA, leads CdM with 29 goals and 12 assists.

JSerra came from behind to beat Cathedral Catholic of San Diego, 3-2, Tuesday at St. Margaret’s.