Mira Costa Varsity 1 hockey team defeats Hermosa beach 8-1 in championship game

Jack Brooks

Editor

 

On Tuesday May 16th, the Mira Costa Varsity hockey team defeated their rivals from Hermosa Beach, 8-1. The game, which took place at the Toyota Sports Performance Center, was a must-win for both teams as they jostled for position in the league standings according to Sophomore Nate Cohn.

 

“This was the most important game of the year since we were playing for the championship title.” Sophomore left wing Brock Lewis said. “As a team, we had to play to the best of our abilities since Hermosa Beach was a strong, well-developed, and strategic team.”

According to Lewis, Costa came out strong in the first period, putting Hermosa Beach behind with their aggressive playstyle. The Mustangs persistence paid off as they scored four goals in quick succession, giving them an early 4-0 lead. Mira Costa Sophomore center Nate Cohn added to that lead by scoring back-to-back goals in the first period.

 

“We were able to move the puck easily and play with poise which helped us dominate the first period,” Cohn said. “I had great linemates in junior Nolan Kawalec and senior Tommy Griffith  who helped me score a few easy goals.”

In the second period, Costa was able to keep their momentum going and scored again to make it 5-0. Hermosa Beach started to find their footing and put pressure on Mira Costa’s defense while being able to score a goal, closing the gap to 5-1. However, Mira Costa sophomore left wing Luku Goldner quickly answered with a goal, re-establishing their 5-goal lead making the score 6-1, according to Lewis. 

 

“After they scored their goal they started to pressure us a lot but the boys stayed calm and kept their foot on the petal,” Goldner said. “So scoring a goal late in the second made them lose their hopes.”

 

The third period was a very successful period for Mira Costa. Sophomore forward Timofei Runtso and defensemen Kai O’neill scored, extending the lead 8-1. According to Runtso, Mira Costa’s defense held strong for the rest of the game, allowing them to secure the victory.

 

“This was a great win, and a fun way to end the season with a great group of guys,” Cohn said. “It felt pretty good to bring home Costa’s first hockey championship.”