Solid Start for Mira Costa in CIF

12.16.2024

Mira Costa HS logged a nice early result in the CIF league in Southern California this past weekend, defeating Fallbrook at Fallbrook.

It was a fairly convincing win for Mira Costa, but Head Coach Duke Dulgarian cautioned against getting too carried away with the result, saying Fallbrook is in a big rebuilding phase, which certainly appears to be the case.

However, Mira Costa is also playing quite well, and showcased good team speed. While their forwards aren't big they are experienced and quick and get to the ball. Props Colin McGinly and Cash Lahive are athletic and mobile, while No. 8 Atticus Pines has deceptive pace and is a key target in their lineout.

That opens up chances for a very effective backline, featuring scrumhalf Henry Frost, center Theo Mackaman, and fullback Kai Succari.

Wing Charley McCarthy is an accomplished sprinter in track. But the guy it all seems to go through is Pablo Pasqual. Able to play flyhalf or either center position, Pasqual is dynamic and athletic. He's a good kicker and an exciting talent.

For Mira Costa, all of this was a good start to what promises to be an intriguing season in CIF. The Platinum league is up to six teams, the Gold league has four teams, and the girls league has expanded to nine.

"Our league is growing in number of schools," said Dulgarian. "I think next year will see our league expand in even larger numbers. Our model is working and we will now be able to get CIF attention. Our girls league is growing as well. View Park just joined. The girls are the key for rugby to get CIF approval."

Also among CIF teams Cathedral Catholic hosted the Australian Raptors U16 touring side. The Raptors won 40-3 although it's fair to point out that Cathedral was missing three players who were in New Zealand with the USA U18s at the Global Youth 7s.

Here is the game on YouTube:

Solid Start for Mira Costa in CIF

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