Liberty (12-1), coming off a 28-14 win over Freedom for the District 11 title last Saturday, plays District 12 champion George Washington (10-1) in the PIAA Class 4A quarterfinals at noon at Northeast High's Charles Martin Stadium.

Philadelphia Public League schools are 0-4 in state Football playoff games. George Washington has lost two of them, succumbing 15-10 to Easton in 2004 and 44-12 to Parkland last year.

Liberty is 2-0 against Philly schools in state playoff games, routing Frankford in 2005 and 2006 by 42-6 and 35-14 scores.

Today's matchup marks the first meeting between Liberty and George Washington.

Eagles coach Ron Cohen is excited for the opportunity to make history by winning the public league's first state playoff game.

"It would give us a little bit more credence in the state," said Cohen, who has won 217 games in 24 years at George Washington.

"The Philadelphia Public League has not been the strongest league," Cohen added. "We have talent. Our problem has been with discipline and line play. That was the difference when we've gone to states."

George Washington advanced by upsetting Catholic League champion La Salle, 23-14, in the city title game last week, helped by big plays and an aggressive defense.

Cohen is looking for a similar effort today by his Eagles against junior quarterback Anthony Gonzalez and the rest of the Liberty team.

"We are a quick Football team, but so is Liberty," Cohen said. "They have athletes, so it's going to be a tough battle for us."

If you go: Pennsylvania Turnpike's Northeast Extension South to I-276 East to Exit 339 toward Fort Washington
andre.williams@mcall.com

610-820-6529

4A QUARTERFINAL

Who: Liberty vs. George Washington

When: Noon today

Where: Northeast High School's Charles Martin Stadium, Philadelphia

TV: Noon, Service Electric, RCN (replay 7 p.m. on Service Electric)