The Mira Costa High School football team achieved a remarkable feat on Friday night, as they defeated their arch-rival Redondo Sea Hawks 21-14 in the Battle of the Nic(k)os. The Mustangs, who had started the season with an 0-7 record, managed to secure a spot in the CIF playoffs with their third consecutive victory. The game was a thrilling contest that featured two quarterbacks with similar names but different styles: Mira Costa’s Nico De La Cruz and Redondo’s Niko London.
Mustangs Take Early Lead
The Mustangs took advantage of a strong defensive performance and some costly penalties by the Sea Hawks to build a 14-0 lead by the end of the third quarter. De La Cruz, who completed 22 of 42 passes for 279 yards and two touchdowns, connected with Luke Meeker and Reese Leonard for scoring plays of 3 and 9 yards, respectively. Leonard had a stellar game, catching six passes for 113 yards. Charlie O’Connor also contributed with four receptions for 68 yards.
Sea Hawks Rally Back
The Sea Hawks, who had struggled to find their rhythm on offense, suddenly came alive in the fourth quarter. London, who had missed two games due to a concussion, showed his resilience and talent by leading two quick scoring drives. He threw a 12-yard touchdown pass to Jaden Allen and then ran for a 1-yard touchdown himself, tying the game at 14-14 with 6:36 left in the game. London finished with 15 of 25 passes for 172 yards and one touchdown, and also ran for 47 yards and another score.
Mustangs Seal the Win
The Mustangs did not let the Sea Hawks’ comeback dampen their spirit. They responded with a decisive drive that culminated in a 1-yard touchdown run by freshman A.J. McBean, who had provided a spark for the running game with 32 yards on seven carries. The Mustangs’ defense then held off the Sea Hawks’ final attempt to tie the game, as De La Cruz intercepted London’s pass with less than a minute remaining. The Mustangs celebrated their historic win in front of a jubilant homecoming crowd at Waller Stadium.
Playoff Bound
The Mustangs’ win not only gave them bragging rights over their rival, but also earned them a berth in the Division 6 playoffs. They will face Yucaipa on Friday night in the first round. The Sea Hawks, who finished with a 6-4 record and a 2-3 mark in the Bay League, also made it to the postseason as an at-large team. They will play at Bishop Diego in the Division 7 playoffs. Both teams will hope to extend their seasons and make some noise in the CIF brackets.
