MURRIETA — Following the postgame handshake at midfield, the Norco football team walked over to the visiting bleachers.

The familiar “We are Norco!” chant rang out and players took a team photo in front of the 600 or so fans who made the journey.

“That’s what Norco is about. Our community is always going to show up with that support,” junior linebacker Tony Gonzalez said.

This has been a rough week for the program, and the 24 hours before Thursday’s game were particularly trying after the team had to forfeit six wins because of players who participated in games and have since been deemed ineligible following an investigation .

With their playoff hopes diminished because of the forfeits, the Cougars were determined to play inspired football in what could be their final game of the 202

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