Wyatt Robb
Staff Writer
Mira Costa football saw its historic playoff run come to an end Friday night when the Mustangs were defeated by Palos Verdes, 25-10, in San Pedro.
Despite being down early, Costa looked strong in the first half. The Mustangs were within striking distance entering the third quarter. However, a complete defensive lockdown in the second half kept the Mustangs from scoring, allowing the Sea Kings to escape with the victory.
“I don’t think the scoreboard showed how we felt about the game,” Sophomore safety Spencer Gilbert said. “It was not our best game, but I think it was solid. Sometimes the other team just comes out on top.”
Palos Verdes began the second quarter with a field goal and a touchdown, putting the score at 9-0. The Mustangs answered back; junior quarterback David Arredondo hit senior receiver Tino Sione for a touchdown. Palos Verdes would add a second touchdown on the ensuing kickoff return. Costa responded with a final field goal before halftime, making the score 16-10.
“We had been down in the second half before,” Gilbert said. “We felt comfortable that we could try to make a comeback. Unfortunately, it just did not go our way.”
Costa’s offense would go ice cold after halftime. Palos Verdes added extra insurance by scoring a touchdown in the third. The Mustangs were simply unable to answer, making the final score 25-10.
“Palos Verdes did a lot of things well on defense,” Arredondo said. “They played especially well up front; their line was hard to break.”
It was Palos Verdes’ secondary that seemed to be the defining factor in the game. On defense they were always a step faster; recording a total of three interceptions. Due to the Sea King’s exceptional coverage, Arredondo had a tough time finding open Costa receivers.
“Defensively, Palos Verdes was a very disciplined team,” Gilbert said “They had a great game plan and were well coached. ”
The Mustangs also experienced a breakdown on special teams. Two of three Palos Verdes touchdowns came on kickoff and punt returns. These mistakes would ultimately lead to Costa’s defeat.
“Our special teams play was really sloppy,” Gilbert said. “Without those two touchdowns, we’re right in that game ”
Costa’s ten wins this season were the team’s best since 2009. An overall talented squad, the Mustangs excelled on both offense and defense. Although they will lose a few key seniors, the team is relatively young and can be rebuilt for next year.
“Overall we played great this year,” Arredondo said. “Our guys were able to come back and make a statement after last year’s disappointing season.”
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