Let’s hope they can keep playing

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The Dorsey-Santa Margarita non-league series has been an entertaining one since it began in 2002. But Friday’s contest, which Dorsey won, 12-7, in a game that was as close as the score, may have been the last game between the schools -- at least for awhile.

Presently there is no new contract to continue the series. Representatives from both sides agree there won’t be any discussions until after the 2007 season. And while neither side has a burning desire to end the series, no one sounds as if it would be difficult to find other teams in 2008.

Dorsey assistant coach William Harris, who helps with scheduling, said the Dons ‘want to see what’s out there’ regarding future opponents. When asked if that eliminates Santa Margarita from consideration, Harris said no. ‘We like to play them. But we also want to see what else is out there.’

At least Harris didn’t shut the door and lock it. ‘I’d say the only place we’re not going back to is Utah.’

Eagles Coach Mike Jacot said the travel from Rancho Santa Margarita in Orange County to Los Angeles -- the schools are 59 miles apart -- takes a toll. ‘We’re now trying to stay as local as we can,’ Jacot said. ‘And it’s getting harder and harder to get Orange County games.’

Jacot said he would want at least a two-year, home-and-home deal with Dorsey to keep the series alive. ‘And they might want to do that. We just haven’t talked about it. It’s a good matchup for both of us. But the travel is starting to get to us.’

Santa Margarita leads the series, 3-2. Dorsey’s win on Friday ended a two-game losing streak to the Eagles.

- Mike Terry