Mustangs gallop past Bruins

LAKEWOOD RANCH — After winning one game a season ago, the Lakewood Ranch High football team has turned itself around, going from worst to first in a matter of weeks.

On Oct. 16, Lakewood cruised to a 35-14 non-district victory over host Bayshore. With the win, the Mustangs improved their record to 4-3, while the Bruins fall to 3-4.

Lakewood took the lead on its opening possession when junior running back Taryn Laws punched the ball in from a yard out. Bayshore responded in the second quarter on a touchdown run by Alex Jackson to tie the game.

The Mustangs regained the lead in the second quarter when senior Octavious Washington hauled in a 23-yard touchdown reception from senior quarterback Reggie Lindsey, giving Lakewood a 14-7 lead. But the Bruins responded once again on a touchdown run by Dominic Everett.

Lakewood further extended its lead when Lindsey found the end zone from a yard out, giving the Mustangs a 21-7 halftime lead. Lindsey connected with Washington for a 39-yard strike in the third quarter and Jake Carlton scored Lakewood’s final points of the night on a 22-yard touchdown catch in the fourth quarter.

Lindsey threw for 189 yards and three touchdowns and also rushed for 60 yards a scored. Laws rushed for 133 yards and a score and Washington caught four passes for 90 yards and two scores.

The Mustangs return to district action Oct. 23 against Punta Gorda Charlotte. The winner of tomorrow night’s game will assume sole possession of first place in the district standings and seal their chances of advancing to the regional playoffs. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m.

The Tarpons (6-1) are coming off a 31-28 loss to Venice — their first of the season. Through seven games, Charlotte has outscored its opponents 321-84. The Mustangs will look to contain quarterback Kyle Midgett, running back Mike Bellamy and wide receiver Alex Mut. Offensively, Lakewood will need strong performances by Lindsey, Washington and Laws.

Contact Jen Blanco at [email protected].