Mustangs gallop past Pirates

Behind the strength of its offensive line and the legs of McKenzie Hathaway and Andre Christiano, Lakewood Ranch defeated Braden River 28-18, marking the Mustangs second-consecutive win in the rivalry series.

Lakewood marched 80 yards down the field on its opening possession, and took an early 7-0 lead on Hathaway’s 3-yard run.

Braden River responded with 4:56 remaining in the first quarter when quarterback Steven Ross connected with Troy Gatling in the back of the end zone for a 26-yard score, cutting Lakewood’s lead to 7-6.

Lakewood extended its lead early in the second quarter when Hathaway punched the ball in from three yards out.

After recovering an onside kick on its ensuing possession, Braden River cut Lakewood’s lead to 14-12 when offensive lineman Trevon Young recovered running back Demond Bradley’s fumble and rumbled his way 17 yards for the score.

The Mustangs responded late in the first half when quarterback Jeren Kowalewski ran in from three yards out to extend the lead to 21-12.

Braden River opened the third quarter with a scoring drive of its own when Ross threw the ball back to wide receiver Ryan Fischer who then connected with Justin Ross in the corner of the end zone for a 12-yard touchdown. A blocked extra point left the Pirates trailing 21-18.

Lakewood added its final touchdown of the game with 6:06 remaining in the fourth quarter when Kowalewski ran in from five yards out.

The Pirates tried to respond late in the game, but a pair of fourth-quarter interceptions by Lakewood’s Luke Sears and Brandon King derailed Braden River’s attempt at a comeback.

Braden River travels to North Port next week while Lakewood returns home to host Southeast. Kickoff for both games is set for 7:30 p.m.

For a complete story and additional photos from tonight’s game, pick up the Sept. 8 issue of the East County Observer.