MISSION VIEJO - Ninth-ranked San Clemente moved a step closer to securing a playoff berth with a 42-0 victory over Capistrano Valley in South Coast League play Friday night at Capistrano Valley High.

The Tritons (7-2, 2-2) can clinch a spot with a victory against Aliso Niguel next week.

"I'm glad we came out and played hard after two tough losses," Tritons coach Eric Patton said. "I think we are back on stride."

The Tritons received two big special teams plays in the opening quarter. Ricky Carter's blocked punt set up David Espino's 5-yard touchdown run, and the Tritons led, 7-0.

After San Clemente forced a three-and-out, Ryan DeLeon took the punt 40 yards to put the Tritons in front of the Cougars (3-6, 1-3), 14-0. Three plays later, Will Tober took an interception 18 yards to extend the margin to 21-0.

San Clemente scored three more times in the second quarter then pulled its starters after halftime.

Quarterback Duke DeLancellotti connected with Graham Tenney on a 817-yard scoring pass to make it 28-0.

Espino followed with a 23-yard touchdown run to move it to 35-0. And DeLeon capped the scoring with a 53-yard touchdown run.

San Clemente limited the Cougars to 22 yards passing. Tober, Josh Leff and Brian Adams each had an interception.

Contact the writer: ctobolski@ocregister.com