ORANGE — The Laguna Beach football team experienced its first Delta League defeat on Thursday night at Fred Kelly Stadium, falling to El Modena by a score of 21-14. Despite leading for most of the first half and holding a lead into the fourth quarter, key plays ultimately went against the Breakers.
The decisive fourth quarter began with El Modena's Thomas Sheehan intercepting a pass near the line of scrimmage and returning it for a touchdown, which tied the game. Shortly after, Hayden Esparza secured his second rushing score of the night for the Vanguards with just under seven minutes remaining, providing El Modena with the lead they would maintain for the remainder of the game.
Esparza, who rushed for 85 yards and two touchdowns, expressed confidence in his team, stating, “I believe that we all believe in each other.” He further noted the team’s unity, saying, “We’re one. We’re one as a family, and we all have each other’s backs.”
Laguna Beach, now 4-3 overall and 1-1 in league play, scored on its opening drive of both halves. Both scores came from deep red-zone completions from freshman quarterback Braden Hansen to Brady Stringham. Hansen was pressed into action after starting senior quarterback Jack Hurst sustained a knee injury in the league opener. Stringham praised Hansen’s performance, stating, “He’s been playing great.” Laguna Beach coach John Shanahan also commended Hansen, saying he was “blown away with how composed, how smart he was” during the game, and took responsibility for the pass that led to Sheehan’s interception.
El Modena’s pass rush proved impactful throughout the contest, especially following their momentum-shifting defensive score. Mason Romo recorded three sacks and Walker Duff added two, contributing to a cumulative loss of 46 yards for Laguna Beach. Romo also delivered a game-clinching tackle on a fourth-down play. El Modena coach Matt Mitchell highlighted his defense’s effort, stating, “They play with a motor,” and noting their commitment to being well-coached. The Vanguards improved their record to 6-1 overall and 1-1 in league.
El Modena quarterback Ethan Sorenson led his team’s rushing attack with 11 carries for 110 yards. He also completed a crucial 38-yard pass to Noah Bates, which set up Esparza’s go-ahead touchdown. For Laguna Beach, Bob Gardner turned 14 touches into 97 total yards, including 67 rushing yards. Will Kimball led the receiving corps with five catches for 60 yards, and Colter Steris recovered a fumble on defense.
Laguna Beach will return to Guyer Field on October 16 to host regional rival Dana Hills, marking their first home game since early September after four consecutive road games. The Breakers also have matchups against Huntington Beach and Western (0-6) remaining on their schedule. Coach Shanahan underscored the importance of the upcoming games, stating, “Our season comes down to three weeks.” He expressed confidence in his team’s work ethic and their ability to compete, saying, “We’ve had a shot in every game we were in.”
