By Sandor Kopitz
Staff Writer
The Mira Costa Mustangs claimed a spot in the CIF playoffs in their ninth Bay League game as they easily defeated the Peninsula Panthers, 4-0. They now have a season record of 12-3-4 and a Bay League record of 5-2-2.
“We played really well. We scored two goals in the first half and two in the second half. It was a very consistent and well- played game,” coach Gary Smith said.
The team’s goals in the first half came from seniors Alex De La Espriella and Charlie Pitts. Seniors D.J. Peper and Augie Diaz assisted the goals.
“I got the ball to Charlie and he gave us a 2-0 lead in the first half. After that we cruised to a nice victory. We are looking to beat PV to win Bay League,” Diaz said.
The Mustangs were able to tack on two more goals in the second half to seal the victory. The first was scored by senior Joe Valenzuela and the second by Pitts.
The Mustangs played well defensively, which kept the Panthers from taking many shots. Costa’s defensive strategies remained strong throughout the game.
“Both goalies only had one save each, which showed how well we played today. Our defensive half really was the game changer,” Smith said.
With this win, the Mustangs brought strong momentum into their game against Palos Verdes (17-3-4) yesterday, but results from this game were unavailable at the time of publication.
“We play the best team in the league. We have a chance to win Bay League with that game. It would mean a lot to bring home a title,” Smith said before the game.
The Mustangs are in third place, and depending on other Bay League games, they could be playing Palos Verdes for the title.
“Combined with our Leuzinger win we have now clinched a playoff. At worst, we will stay in third place,” Smith said before the game.
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