UPDATE: In a nail-biting finish, Palos Verdes High School triumphed over rival Mira Costa with an 18-15 victory in a dramatic Bay League football showdown on October 31, 2025. The game showcased high-stakes plays and intense rivalries, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.
With less than six minutes remaining, Palos Verdes quarterback Ryan Rakowski executed a masterful drive that culminated in a touchdown pass to Christian Reis, sealing the hard-fought win for the Sea Kings. “That was a tough game,” said Palos Verdes coach Guy Gardner. “We knew it was going to be a tough game. Great effort on both sides.”
Mira Costa, aiming to break an eight-game losing streak against Palos Verdes, initially took the lead with a 1-yard touchdown run by AJ McBean and a two-point conversion from Liam Meeker to Jackson Reach late in the third quarter. This left the Mustangs ahead 15-12 as the game entered its final phase.
However, Palos Verdes responded with a relentless 20-play drive that extended into the fourth quarter. Crucial penalties against Mira Costa, including a 15-yard personal foul, allowed the Sea Kings to maintain possession and momentum. Coach Gardner opted to pull back a potential tying field goal, trusting his offense instead.
“It was not an easy night for him, that’s for sure,” Gardner noted about Rakowski. “He kept competing and so did our guys, that was really nice.”
Rakowski’s resilience was on full display as he scrambled for key yardage, finishing the game with a crucial 36 yards on the final drive, including an eight-yard sprint to end the game. “I think that game just really defines Sea King football and what we’re all about,” Rakowski said, emphasizing the team’s grit and determination.
Throughout the contest, both defenses were relentless. The first quarter ended scoreless, with Palos Verdes finally breaking the tie when Rakowski rushed for a 6-yard touchdown. Mira Costa retaliated just before halftime with a touchdown of their own, but the Sea Kings’ defense held firm, keeping the Mustangs from capitalizing further.
Mira Costa, now with a record of 7-3 and 2-3 in Bay League play, struggled to regain control in the fourth quarter, unable to mount an effective response after Palos Verdes took the lead. Coach Don Morrow remarked on the defensive effort, noting, “There was a lot of time on the field for those guys, but that’s what they make you do.”
This thrilling win not only enhances Palos Verdes’ season but also solidifies their reputation in the Bay League. Fans and players alike are left buzzing about the electrifying performance as the team prepares for their next challenge.
As the football season progresses, all eyes will be on the Sea Kings as they aim to build on this momentum and continue their pursuit of excellence in high school football.
