By Sandor Kopitz
Staff Writer
For the third straight year the Mira Costa Mustangs were Bay League champs. Though undefeated in the Bay League, on Nov. 19, the Mustangs lost 27-17 to the fifth seeded Moorpark Musketeers out of the Marmonte League.
Although the Mustangs put up a fight, the defensive squad could not save the Mustangs as it had done all season. The Musketeers scored more touchdowns in the first half of the game than they had allowed throughout all Bay League matches.
“They were a solid team. It was unfortunate we got them in the first round. They were probably one of the best third place teams in California because of the hard division they play in,” said junior quarterback Christian Rogers.
The Mustangs started the game with a long drive down the field. Senior running back Deon Morris scored a touchdown to give the Mustangs a competitive start.
“It was a hard fought game, and our offensive line and fullback played really well. I was able to get behind them and get through a couple of holes,” said Morris.
However, after the lone Mustang touchdown, the Musketeers added on three touchdowns. The Mustangs fell behind 21-7.
“Moorpark passed the ball very well, they executed on offense and unfortunately we didn’t have any answers for them,” said Morris.
Kicker Brendan Sofen tacked on a field goal at the end of the first half, making the score 21-10 before the break.
The second half opened with a Moorpark field goal. Quickly, the Mustangs made their move with a long run and senior Tajee Mobley ran in the 1-yard touchdown.
This put Costa only 7 points away from Moorpark. It also served to motivate them to get the ball back.
Late in the game Costa started to throw the ball more. These foreign moves were costly. After an intercepted pass, Moorpark added on another field goal to put them up by 10.
Though eliminated early in the CIF rounds, Costa looks forward to next year with their young team. They plan to start preparing the sophomores and juniors with more experience which will hopefully yield great results next season.
“It’s going to be tough filling all these great seniors spots next year, but we’re going to work hard in the off-season and start getting ready for next year. I’m already looking forward to the game against Loyola,” said Rogers.
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