COSTA MESA – Saddleback coach Rob Thompson has often told his players that luck will come only to those who work hard.
The Roadrunners are strong believers in his philosophy after Saddleback made good on its second chances to defeat Costa Mesa, 21-14, in overtime Friday night in an Orange Coast League game at Estancia High.
Chris Rios scored the winning touchdown on fourth-and-goal in the first overtime, and Juan Medina recorded the sack that wrecked Costa Mesa’s possession in the extra period.
A long drive at the end of regulation had the Roadrunners (6-3, 4-0) in position to win in regulation. Johnny Rojas completed four straight passes to take the Roadrunners from their own 10 to the Costa Mesa 12 in 58 seconds. Saddleback set up for the winning field goal, but Emanuel Oropeza’s 29-yard try came up short.
In overtime, Pedro Leon fumbled inside the Costa Mesa 10, but the Roadrunners recovered and eventually scored.
Saddleback now finds itself on the cusp of history. The Roadrunners are 27 years removed from their last league title. They will face Estancia (7-2, 4-0) next week to decide the Orange Coast League championship.
“It’s amazing, it’s all we can ask for,” Thompson said. “We’re going to be ready to play Estancia. We’re going to be fired up.”
Leon led Saddleback with 102 rushing yards. Bryan Salcido had 82 receiving yards, 55 on the final drive of regulation.
Costa Mesa (2-7, 2-2) could have locked up a playoff spot with a win and a Calvary Chapel loss. The Mustangs need to beat the Eagles (4-5, 2-2) next week to secure the Orange Coast League’s final automatic CIF-SS playoff bid.
Costa Mesa had early momentum Friday. The Mustangs ran 20 plays on their opening drive, including three fourth-down conversions, as they grinded their way into the lead. Cameron Curet finished the drive with a short-yardage touchdown. Curet had a game-high 185 rushing yards and added 34 receiving yards.
The teams were tied at 7 going into the fourth quarter before Darmonta Davis put the Mustangs ahead with a 2-yard run.
Saddleback answered 59 seconds later, as Rojas uncorked a beautiful deep pass to Emilio Garcia for the equalizer.