Mustangs fall short of district title

With its starting running back sidelined with flu-like symptoms, the Lakewood Ranch High football team fell 42-22 to Largo Oct. 28, allowing the Packers to capture the Class 6A-District 7 title.

The Mustangs (4-4, 3-1) can still clinch a playoff spot next week with a win at Seminole Osceola.

Largo took an early 7-0 lead when Cordell Hundson intercepted Lakewood quarterback Jeren Kowalewski’s second pass of the game and ran it back 31 yards for a touchdown.

The Packers added a pair of rushing touchdowns to take a 21-0 lead early in the second quarter.

Lakewood responded with 4:08 remaining in the first half when Kowalewski punched the ball in from 1 yard out, capping off a 12-play, 80-yard drive.

Trailing 28-6 at halftime, the Mustangs recovered an onside kick to start the second half. Seven plays later Kowalewski connected with Brandon King for a 16-yard score. Kowalewski’s two-point conversion attempt fell incomplete, leaving Lakewood trailing 28-12.

Zach Reda hit a 33-yard field goal with 4:08 remaining in the third quarter to pull the Mustangs within 28-15.

Kowalewski connected with King for a 25-yard touchdown for Lakewood’s final score.

For a complete story on Friday night’s district game, pick up the Nov. 3 issue of the East County Observer.