The game tested the Mustangs’ stamina. But Pershing football walked off with a 47-32 win against Coral Academy last Thursday at Wooster High School in Reno.
“They became worn down in the second half being short-handed, but were able to come away with the victory,” said Pershing’s head coach, Mike Brooks, now completing his fourth year at the helm. “The offense scored on every drive, except when we ran the clock out, and our defense got some key stops early.”
Pershing County improved to 5-3, overall, and 4-2 in the 2A northern.
According to Brooks, Mariano Gomez (44) played his best game of the season overall. That’s saying a lot. The graduating senior has a well-deserved reputation for tenacity on both sides of the ball.
Fellow seniors Devin Moura (2) and Diego Gonzalez (7) also lit up the scoreboard. Moura passed the ball for three touchdowns against the Falcons and rushed over 100 yards. Gonzalez subbed as wide receiver and scored his first career touchdown.
The underclassmen shined too. Freshman fullback Tyrn Sam stepped up from JV to play tight end and guard on offense. He also played defensive end.
Sam started as No. 33.
“Then we put a #62 and #66 on him so he could play on the line when needed,” said Brooks. “We were happy with his effort and adaptability.”
“Defensively, Wyatt Diaz (#68; a junior) played well and others contributed big plays,” he added.
On Friday, the Pershing County Mustangs head to Lion territory for first round of the playoffs. They’ll face Yerington, the league champions, at 6 p.m.
Yerington won the state championship in 2019 by beating Lincoln County 33-22. Since there was no state competition last year, they still reign supreme.
Earlier in the season (Sept. 24), in Yerington, the Lions clobbered Pershing County 36-3.
“They took it to us there early in the year, so we’re excited to see what we can do this time,” said Brooks. “We need to prepare to play well.”
JV boys end season with win
The JV boys won a close contest against the Coral Academy Falcons (26-20), ending their season on a positive note.
“Our kids battled through challenges that seem to have become the new norm,” said Coach Jared Jensen. “When things got tough they stepped up to the challenge. We’re excited to see what they accomplish in the future.
