In an action-packed game against the Fauquier Falcons on Sept. 26, the Meridian Mustangs put on a spectacular performance, coming out on top with a commanding 60-22 win after dominating both sides of the ball.
Meridian was looking strong, with an early rushing touchdown from senior Oumar Thompson putting them on the board 6-0 after just one minute of play. The ‘Stangs defense followed up on the team’s offensive success with a punt block and recovery by senior Alex Jacobson, leading to another touchdown by Thompson, doubling their lead over the Falcons.
With only ten seconds left in the quarter, Oumar Thompson delivered once again, scoring yet another touchdown to wrap up the first quarter at 21-7.
“He really was the X-factor tonight,” said head coach Patrick Anderson when asked about Oumar’s exceptional performance.
Unfortunately, Meridian wasn’t able to maintain their momentum at the start of the second quarter, as an early fumble and touchdown were all it took to give Fauquier the motivation they needed to get right back in the game.
With halftime quickly approaching, the Mustangs’ defense desperately needed a stop, which came in the form of an interception by senior Jack Moore. His 41-yard return set the Mustangs up at the Fauquier 30-yard line.
Just two minutes later, the Mustangs got what they were looking for, ending the first half with a one-yard quarterback sneak touchdown, giving them a comfortable 35-14 point lead.
Entering the second half, Meridian wasted no time getting the ball back, as an interception from cornerback Junior Martinez set them up at Fauquier’s 18-yard line after just 44 seconds of play.
Following the interception, Meridian players Alex Jacobson and Jack Moore gave the team another two touchdowns, further extending the Mustangs’ lead deep into the 3rd quarter.
In the wake of their most recent touchdowns, Meridian’s defense proved strong once again, forcing a punt, which would eventually lead to an exceptional 64-yard punt return touchdown for senior returner Duke Dawson.
After the action-packed 3rd quarter, Meridian was in the lead by over 40 points, with an overpowering 57-14 score, which would go on to end at 60-22 when the final whistle blew, a Fauquier touchdown and Meridian field goal marking the end of the game.
Senior Rex Macalester gave his opinion on the blowout, as well as the season so far. “The game went great, although we still have some things to work on as a team, I think we’re on track for a district championship,” said Macalester.
As of now, the Mustangs are 3-2, and hope to add onto their success with a similar performance in their game against James Wood on October 3rd.
