By Becky Roa (November 20, 2003)

The Mustangs face one of the most important games in the last several years as they take on Manassas Park this Friday night at 7:30 on Cougar turf. The Mustangs, who finished (7-3) overall, qualified as a wild card into the Regional semifinals by virtue of power points. The Mustangs acquired power points by virtue of wins against quality teams, amount of points scored and other key statistics throughout the season. If the Mustangs beat the Cougars Friday night they will play second seeded Central Woodstock who defeated third seeded Central Lunenberg in an as yet to be determined location for the regional title.
 

As the Mustangs prepare to extend their season one game at a time, first year defensive coach Adam Amerine says he’s "anticipating seniors Chris Epling and Matt Williams to lead defensivly." Amerine has been going over the latest game tape against their arch rival Cougars, and noted that "they didn’t physically beat us in the last game."  Reflecting on that 13-0 loss, Amerine said of his defense "we gave up a few key passes, and we beat ourselves." In the loss, Amerine noted of the offense that "a combination of turnovers, not blocking well overall and linemen not executing well" caused the Mustangs to lose focus. Despite the earlier loss, the Mustangs have been reminded all week of key positive plays from that game, including causing a fumble and capturing three interceptions againsst Bull Run player of the year and first team all District Cougar quarterback Zach Terrell.

Looking to add to their already impressive 7-3  record and extend their season further into the  playoffs, these Mighty Mustangs of the Gridiron  are poised to take on district rival Manassas Park  this Friday at 7:30 on the Cougars’ home turf.  From left to right, back row, are senior Matt  Williams and junior Danny Johnson. Front row are  senior Casey Winzeler, freshman Ryan Larcamp,  and senior Peter Dittmar.  (Photo by Andrea Genovese Soares)

Senior Matt Williams added, "It all hinges on if we just execute. If we execute well our game plan is solid and we can beat this Manassas Park team." Coach Amerine assures Mustangs fans, "If you are there on Friday night, you will witness one heck of a game."