Defense-Fought Playoff Clash: Edison Defeats Newport Harbor in CIF-SS Round 1, Score 6-0 (2025)

Newport Beach – Davidson Field (NHHS)

In a tense, defense-first playoff matchup between two Sunset League rivals, Edison edged out Newport Harbor 6-0 in the first round of the CIF Southern Section Division 1 girls flag football playoffs on Wednesday night at Davidson Field.

Both teams came in well-prepared and familiar with one another, having split close battles in league play earlier this season. This time, the stakes were higher — win and advance, or see the season come to an end.

From the opening whistle, it was clear that both defenses were ready for the challenge. Edison’s defensive line applied relentless pressure on Newport Harbor quarterback Scarlett Guyser, forcing hurried throws and several stalled drives. Junior captain Sadie Olivares led the Chargers with nine tackles, and set the tone for a disciplined defensive effort. Freshman standout Addison Bond added seven tackles, while Preslee Thomas contributed five more as Edison clamped down in the red zone. Sophomore Ayla Khoshkbariie contributed the team’s single interception on the night as well. 

For the Sailors, it was an uncharacteristically quiet night on offense. Star running back Skylie Cid, who had been a key part of Newport Harbor’s scoring attack all season, was sidelined with an injury. Without her explosive playmaking, the Sailors leaned on Guyser and receivers Cooper Dick, Blakely Irvine, and Cora Jordan, but struggled to move the ball past midfield against Edison’s secondary.

The game remained scoreless through the first half as both defenses refused to give an inch. Early in the third quarter, Edison finally found a breakthrough. Senior Katelyn Chantha took a handoff and broke through a seam up the right sideline for a 42-yard touchdown run, giving the Chargers a 6-0 lead. The PAT attempt failed, but the big play proved to be the difference.

Newport Harbor’s defense continued to battle, led by Guyser, Ashlyn Spicer, and Aliyah Chappell, who helped limit Edison’s passing game and force multiple punts. However, the Sailors’ offense couldn’t capitalize on their late possessions. Edison’s secondary came up with a couple crucial stops to seal the win.

With the result, Edison (18-9) advances to the CIF-SS second round, while Newport Harbor closes its season at 23-3, highlighted by a Sunset League championship and one of the most dominant teams in the nation.

It was a hard-fought battle between two of the league’s best, a fitting playoff clash that showcased how far girls flag football has come in just two short years. Good luck to Edison next week as they face off against Dos Pueblos on Monday, October 27th at a neutral location.