Scheafers help Eagles tie

COSTA MESA — Perhaps it was fitting that the girls’ soccer game between Costa Mesa and Estancia high schools ended in a tie.

After all, the teams share the field at Estancia.

Technically it was a home game for Costa Mesa, and for a while it seemed as if Jim Scott Stadium belonged to them. But the Eagles showed they are just as good, answering a one-goal deficit to open Orange Coast League play with a 1-1 tie Thursday.

The teams played even in the first half. But the Mustangs scored seven minutes into the second half, leaving Estancia with the challenge of responding against their rival, which is vying for its third straight Orange Coast League title and seventh consecutive league championship.

“The whole hype has been the rivalry,” Estancia first-year coach Jessica Gatica said of what she told her team when trailing, 1-0. “Here’s your time to prove yourselves.”

In the 62nd minute, the Scheafer sisters helped the Eagles (6-7-2) force a tie. Senior Abby Scheafer’s pass to her younger sister, Alissa, caught the Mustangs off guard and out of position. The Estancia sophomore quickly took advantage and fired in a shot from just inside the 18-yard box.

The Mustangs (5-5-6) had a couple scoring opportunities late in the match, but couldn’t finish. That has been the case for them several times during this season, which has led to their six ties, Costa Mesa Coach Dan Johnston said.

He thought the game was evenly played, but believed the Mustangs had a few more viable scoring opportunities than their rivals. He left impressed with the Eagles, who defeated Mesa last year, 3-1, for their first win in league against the Mustangs in 13 years.

Costa Mesa avenged the setback with a 4-1 victory on their way to the Orange Coast League championship.

“This game is always intense,” said Johnston, who is in his 18th year with Costa Mesa.

The Mustangs kicked up the intensity when they scored in the 47th minute. Senior Dana Gentling headed in a free kick from senior Ayla Medina.

Both teams’ goalies came up with a few key saves each and prevented a game-winning goal. Costa Mesa senior Jessica Rubright and Estancia junior Allyson Wallace finished with six saves each.