Monte Vista-Palma football

Friday's game
Monte Vista (5-0) vs. Palma (4-1) at Salinas High, 7:30 p.m.
 Who would have thought the Mustangs would be the last undefeated team in the tri-region area at the midpoint of the season?
 Monte Vista has justified its move into the Gabilan Division. Dating back to last year, it is 10-1, with the one loss coming from Terra Nova in the CCS Division IV title game.
 The 29-time league champion Chieftains used last week's bye to get a second wind and get healthy for the second half.
 A Palma defense, anchored by linemen Drew Dalman and Angel Maldonado, has quieted its last two opponents while the offense has been fueled by quarterback Jack Richardson.
 Tight end Liam McMillin has evolved into one of the premier receivers in the Gabilan, while Isaiah Blanco has three touchdown receptions.
 While Emilio Martinez is expected to return after suffering a shoulder injury three weeks ago, Jared Torculas proved to be a nice compliment with a 122-yard rushing effort two weeks ago.
 Monte Vista has relied on a strong defense, having allowed 33 points all season, outscoring teams 73-8 in the second half.
 D'Shawn Hopkins has rushed for nearly 500 yards for the Mustangs while quarterback Ryan Sphon has thrown for 538 yards.