By Chris Campanelli (September 25, 2002)

The Mustangs proved little match for the Generals of Stonewall Jackson in last Saturday’s game, a 47-0 on the Mustangs’ home field, dropping the Mustangs record to 1-3.

The Mustangs’ defense was unable to halt the Generals’ consistent run-game, and although the Mustangs did well to contained the usual threat of the Viola brothers, Stonewall’s running back Josh Hellsley was consistently able to pound the ball at key points for first downs and touchdowns. The Mustangs on the other hand, were unable to drive the ball consistently, and could not score one touchdown.

Stonewall Jackson ran straight down Mason’s field for a touchdown in the opening drive. Mason returned with a long drive of its own, but was stopped just before the 10-yard-line. It would be the farthest the Mustangs would reach offensively the entire day. Stonewall’s defense shut the Mustangs down repeatedly, forcing punts and turnovers. These turnovers plagued the Mustangs’ chances of offensive success. 

Mustang head coach Tom Horn believed the Mustangs were "not prepared" for the game and the Generals did not allow Mason to get prepared as the game progressed. "It’s hard to find bright spots in a game full of negatives" commented Horn, "but I was pleased with the way we were able to move the ball offensively at certain points in the game. Eric Powell, Reggie Whittaker, and Stephan Williams had more yardage on Saturday than any other game this year, which shows the offense is doing its job."

Coach Horn attributed some of the deterioration in performance to the number of starters playing both sides of the ball. However, Horn found some bright spots defensively in the depth of his team. Matt Lemen, a sophomore Mustang, stepped up into a starting spot and played well, as did senior Kevin Robey, and sophomore Paul Stroup. According to Horn, these three players will be seeing much more of the field in the weeks to come.

Next week the Mustangs will face Goochland for the George Mason homecoming. Goochland has made "vast improvements" over last year, says coach Horn. After this weekend the Mustangs will have a bye week, and then district competition begins. Horn believes that the next three weeks will be a time for "rebuilding and forgetting, a time for preparing for the district games." 

The Mustangs’ varsity football team runs wind sprints in hopes of improving on its performance in last Saturday’s 47-0 loss to Stonewall Jackson.  (Photo by John Ruffino)	Head coach Tom Horn goes over his X’s and O’s with his team in preparation for this Saturday’s homecoming game against Goochland.  (Photo by John Rufino)