Andrew Fasano
Staff Writer
Tommy Waller
Staff Writer
After losing to rival Redondo Union High School on Nov. 4, the Mustangs were disappointed yet again after an early playoff exit.
The Mustangs were defeated by Paramount High School, 49-21, at Waller Stadium on Nov. 11 in the first round of California Interscholastic Federation playoffs. Mira Costa conceded multiple big-play touchdowns, three of which came from special teams plays.
“We were well-prepared defensively, but Paramount was still able to make the big plays, especially on special teams,” coach Cameron Chow said. “Our guys played hard, and we are proud of the way they played, but the main difference in the game was lacking the capability to convert on big plays.”
Despite the loss, assistant coach Chuck Arrasmith said the team was proud of how it played all season.
Photos: Football plays against Paramount High School.
“Overall, I was very happy with how the seniors went out and played,” Arrasmith said. “We have to take into account that Paramount was a good athletic team and was very fast.”
Junior running back Jonah Tavai was utilized at many positions offensively and contributed to one of Costa’s touchdowns with a 27-yard catch from sophomore quarterback Reed Vabrey in the second half. In the closing minutes of the game, Vabrey was able to find senior Alec Oshita in the endzone for a 10-yard score, reducing the Mustangs’ deficit to 49-21.
“We let their defensive line get in behind too many times, which resulted in us having to force many of our plays,” Tavai said. “We also didn’t have our usual guys behind the ball, which was a major detriment to our offense.”
Season highlights on Hudl from the Mira Costa Varsity team.
Due to injuries, the team had trouble jump-starting its running game. Costa was down to its third-string running back, senior Kevin Russell.
“Obviously, it was tough losing some very good players to injury,” Arrasmith said. “But I was proud of how everyone stepped up and decided not to pout or complain about the injuries but instead go out and give it their all.”
The Mustangs finished their season with a 5-1 Bay League record and an overall record of 7-4. According to junior linebacker Cody Kallenbach, the Mustangs are looking to improve and have a better season next year.
Maxpreps: Mira Costa’s remaining schedule and record.
“I’m sure that as a team we are going to work our butts off in the offseason,” Kallenbach said. “One thing I know for sure is that I am going to play each down like it’s my last next season as a senior.”
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