Tennis loses at Brentwood

By Ryan Erickson
Sports Editor

In the most competitive match this year, the Mira Costa girls tennis team suffered a loss at Brentwood on Sept. 21. The loss brings the girls to an overall record of 4-2-1.
The Mustangs were put to the test in the match against Brentwood, suffering a 13-5 loss against the Eagles. The girls struggled in singles play, with the only victory coming from freshman Taylor Klein in nine games. Doubles play saw more success, with junior Carly McGuire, sophomores Claudia Fellows and Sydney Ascher, and freshman Mai Nojima contributing four wins to the teams total.
“Brentwood’s team was serious competition for us,” senior Erin Murphy said. “Five of our matches went to tiebreakers, three of which we won. They were tough to play, but we matched their toughness.”
The girls travel to the Peninsula Racquet Club today when they face off against Chadwick.
“Everyone is working really hard, which is what I want to continue to see when we play Chadwick High School,” coach Joe Ciasulli said.
McGuire and Fellows captured the spotlight in doubles play. Despite their opponents, the doubles partners captured two wins. In their second set, McGuire and Fellows competed in a back-and-forth game that ended in a 7-6 victory. The win gave them the necessary momentum that helped them overcome their next opponent in another 7-6 victory.
“I knew that if we worked as a team, we could pull through with a win,” Fellows said.
Regardless of the tough loss against Brentwood, Ciasulli was impressed with the heart and determination McGuire and Fellows showcased in their games.
“They fought in every set and really hung in there. They are starting to learn that it’s all about placement, not power,” coach Ciasulli said. “Hit ‘em where they ain’t. That’s how you win.”
The Mustangs have a younger team compared to previous years, with two starting sophomores and two starting freshmen. Despite losing five starting seniors last year, the girls are looking to bounce back and produce another successful season.
“We are really young and inexperienced,” Ciasulli said. “There is a lot we can build on, I am confident we will succeed as a team for the rest of the season leading into CIF playoffs for both the team and individuals.”