Eye quarters

“They’re a good defensive team with an excellent goalkeeper,” Pace said. “They defend well as a group, like to counter-attack and they’re very good on set plays.

“We felt good about the way we played on Saturday.”

Crescenta Valley (16-1-3) is quite capable of putting up shutouts, as well, having done it 17 times this season, including in Friday’s 2-0 first-round win over Knight.

Falcons Coach Reggie Rivas said his team is still looking to improve on its overall performance in the playoffs.

“We would like to capitalize early on them if we can,” Rivas said. “Our backline and our defense as a team has been fantastic this year and they’re riding on a lot of confidence.

“I’m very pleased with our performance now, but we expect more out of ourselves after Friday’s game and we need to bring everything we have.”

Corona del Mar (12-6-5) is the third-place team from the Pacific Coast League and advanced to the second round with a shootout win over Montclair on Friday.

“Don’t let the third place fool you, that’s a very strong, strong league. ...They can beat anyone at any time,” Rivas said. “They’ve got a lot of speed that we’re gonna have to control, they’re midfield’s very strong and they’re strong up top. We’re gonna have to contain them and counter on their attacks.”

Sacred Heart will be looking to go beyond the second round after having its season ended there last year by eventual CIF champion Saugus. Crescenta Valley will be looking to advance to the quarterfinals for the second straight year.