Top performers: Murrieta Valley vs. San Clemente

One of the top games Friday night in the Southern Section took place in Orange County with San Clemente hosting Murrieta Valley. In what was a defensive battle early, the game featured plenty of impressive performances on both sides of the ball. Eventually, Murrieta Valley came out with the 26-14 victory to move to 4-1 on the season.   Here is a breakdown of the top performers from Friday night's Week 5 matchup.    There wasn't a ton of offense in Friday's game, especially early, but eventually it was the senior running back who broke things open. Watson finished with 207 yards and a pair of touchdowns in the win. He is a physical downhill runner who proved tough to bring down Friday night. Watson broke free on a couple longer runs showcasing his breakaway speed and elusiveness as well.     The Oklahoma commit scored a touchdown on a stellar catch in the corner of the end zone before halftime. But, it was his work on defense that truly made an even bigger impact. Johnson came up with two interceptions in the game and had a couple impressive pass breakups in the game. Johnson showcased his range on one of the interceptions, and his natural instincts and playmaking ability put him in great position on both plays. Johnson is a fiery player who knows how to maximize his natural athletic ability.     The junior is a bit of a do-everything player for San Clemente, and he had a hand in all three phases of the game Friday night. Rex, who plays receiver, defensive back and returns punts, was impressive on defense early on. He had the first highlight play of the game with an interception on an errant pass. His abilities in the return game stood out as well with his knack for being a slippery return man who can eat up yards on special teams.     Much of the production for San Clemente came on the defensive side of the ball. And, Martinez was one of the players who continually had his name called throughout the game. He was especially important as the Tritons worked to mount a comeback as he came up with an impressive pass breakup in the second half. Martinez is an instinctual player who has a strong ability to break on the ball to make plays. He is also a sure tackler who excelled in one-on-one situations Friday night.     Murrieta Valley's young sophomore quarterback showed some resilience Friday night. After an early interception, Isaia bounced back with a touchdown drive that was closed out with a 16-yard pass. He was particularly impressive late in the game with his team working to hold off a comeback attempt. Isaia showed strong decision-making down the stretch and utilized his legs to keep plays alive. He has impressive arm strength and displayed high-level accuracy following the early interception.     If there was a play being made in the backfield Friday night, it felt like you would see No. 10 around the ball. Leos was a consistent force for the Murrieta Valley defense throughout the game, and he made his presence felt in a variety of ways. His strength stands out as a key attribute, and there were times when he simply overpowered his man to get in the backfield. That doesn't mean he can't play in space, however. Leos was active in coverage but still is at his best coming down hill to make plays on the ball carrier.     The Tritons leaned on the senior running back late in Friday's game as they worked to mount a comeback. Sloan is a nifty runner who was impressive with his ability to change direction. That showed up on a 14-yard touchdown run to pull his team within one score. That play was a culmination of a strong drive for the 5-foot-11 back. He is a patient and confident runner, and that showed up during Friday's game.

One of the top games Friday night in the Southern Section took place in Orange County with San Clemente hosting Murrieta Valley. In what was a defensive battle early, the game featured plenty of impressive performances on both sides of the ball. Eventually, Murrieta Valley came out with the 26-14 victory to move to 4-1 on the season.