In Pittsburgh, the excitement is building as high school football kicks off a thrilling Week 5. This Thursday, at Cupples Stadium, fans can expect a head-to-head clash as the two-time defending champion Westinghouse faces off against Allderdice. This matchup not only has the rivalry flavor but also comes with first place in District 8 on the line.

Heading into this highly anticipated game, both teams boast impressive records, being 2-0 in the City League and 4-1 overall. Notably, neither team has let any points slip through in their two district victories; Westinghouse has outscored their opponents 132-0 against Brashear and Perry, while Allderdice has likewise dominated with a score of 74-0. After starting the season with a close loss to Beaver in Week Zero, the Bulldogs have since marched through four straight victories. Allderdice, on the other hand, has recovered beautifully from a Week 1 setback against Hollidaysburg, winning their last three games.

The history between these two schools runs deep; they have met 14 times over the past seven seasons, including playoff encounters. With four District 8 championship games and three semifinal showdowns in that span, Westinghouse has claimed victory four times compared to Allderdice’s three. However, when it comes to the regular season, Westinghouse remains unbeaten since a 2015 defeat to Allderdice, winning the last eight matches.

On the soccer front, both sections in Class 3A are heating up as teams race towards the post-season. In Section 2-3A, Bethel Park leads with a record of 7-1. They are closely followed by Thomas Jefferson at 5-1-2, Ringgold at 5-1-1, and Trinity at 4-2-1. With only two weeks left in the season, every match counts, as each of these teams vies for a top seed and a shot at the playoffs.

Three other teams in Section 3-3A are also in close contest. Latrobe sits on top at 6-1, while Franklin Regional and Allderdice follow closely behind at 5-1 and 4-1-1 respectively. This Thursday, fans can look forward to several key matches that could shift standings significantly.

Additionally, the girls’ volleyball scene is buzzing with excitement for two battles for first place in Class 2A. Quaker Valley and Hopewell face off in Section 1, while Charleroi takes on Waynesburg in Section 3. With the playoffs on the horizon, these games are vital for seeding and momentum.

As the weather caused some delays, several WPIAL girls tennis doubles sectionals were postponed but are now set to take place on Thursday. Each section’s top teams will aim to qualify for the upcoming championships, making this another exciting day for local sports.