Football: Backups lead Belmont, Hollywood to City Section Division III title game

The two best players in City Section Division III all season have been running back Erik Diaz of Belmont and quarterback David Rothenberg of Hollywood.

Incredibly, both went down with injuries in the first quarter on Friday night in their respective semifinal games and their teammates somehow found a way to win.

Diaz was replaced by sophomore Isaiah Chatman, who scored a touchdown running and receiving in Belmont’s 23-22 win over West Adams.

Rothenberg was replaced by sophomore Ray Hardy, who passed for three touchdowns in Hollywood’s 20-7 win over Manual Arts.

“It’s flabbergasting,” Belmont Coach Gregg Barden said of the injuries. “It shows the resiliency of the two teams.”

It remains to be seen if either will be able to play in next Saturday’s 11 a.m. final at Cerritos College.

Diaz suffered a shoulder injury. He’s expected to receive treatment this week and might make it back.

Rothenberg is on crutches after his Achilles was stepped on by a cleat. His availability is doubtful.

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