By: Sophia Vaughn
The Mustangs managed to cage the Seahawks on Friday, winning both the Battle of the Beach and second place in Bay League.
Costa went up against Redondo at Waller stadium on Nov. 1 at 7 p.m. The game was critical for both teams, as a win would determine future CIF playoff matchups. The Mustangs’ powerhouse offensive once again proved key for the Mustangs, as junior quarterback Sam Whitney and junior wide receiver Thomas Southey produced top performances. The quarterback-receiver duo made three out of Costa’s five touchdowns, and were a game-changer for the Mustangs.
“One of the reasons we’ve been doing well as an offense can be credited to the coaching decisions, “ senior offensive lineman Vincent Real said. “All of the coaches were able to work with the given personnel, and I think they’ve been able to craft a game strategy that really goes well with our ability.”
Costa struggled to find its rhythm offensively in the first quarter, and despite key pass plays, was unable to convert in the red zone. The Mustang defense stayed strong however, and managed to hold Redondo to a series of three and outs. After a scoreless first quarter, however, the Mustangs were able to execute, putting the first points on the board when junior quarterback Sam Whitney made a 24-yard pass to senior wide receiver Jackson Fischer, who was under tight coverage, for the touchdown. However, Redondo quickly responded, answering with a rushing touchdown, tying up the game, 7-7. Costa continued to fight, and Whitney managed to connect with junior wide receiver Thomas Southey for a 3-yard touchdown in the final seconds of the first half, giving the Mustangs a 14-7 lead.
“Offensively the running backs and receiver core did great jobs fighting for every single yard, “ Real said. “Our quarterback Sam Whitney also had an amazing performance, as he could fit the ball perfectly into the receiver’s hands every time. “
The Mustangs took control of the second half, starting when Whitney once again found Southey in the back of the endzone for a 16-yard pass play, making the score 21-7. Whitney and Southey then teamed up for another touchdown when Whitney completed a 9-yard touchdown pass to Southey. Costa’s defense then stepped up, as freshman Jagger Tavai forced a Redondo fumble off of a quarterback keeper. Senior Bryce Carlisle then recovered the fumble and took off down the field on a 35-yard dash straight into the endzone. Redondo added a late rushing touchdown at the end of the fourth, but it was not enough, and Costa took the win, with a final score of 35-14.
“I thought the defense played one of their best games yet, “ Real said. “The line was able to stop the run and the defensive backs rarely let a pass be completed.”
Mira Costa, finishing their regular season 7-3 overall and 4-1 in Bay League, have taken second place in Bay League. Costa will now advance to the first round of CIF playoffs, which will take place at Pacifica High School at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 8. Costa hopes to work better as a team and improve their knowledge of the game going into the playoffs, Real said.
“I hope that we become a more cohesive team, and improve our ability to operate together rather than individually, “ Real said. “I also hope that we can improve our football IQs as a team. It’s important to know what the other ten players are doing on the field as well before the start of a play.”
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