By Dr. David Davis
The Friendswood Mustangs did what new head coach Jordan Johnson asked of them as the Jordan Era unfolded at Henry Winston Stadium against old nemesis Texas City.
“I told the team heading into the game Friday night– ‘the thing we needed most as a program was to play with 100% effort for 48 minutes and put together a complete game,’ Johnson said. “For the most part, I felt like we competed well for the duration of the game.
“The difference in this game was not a matter of effort, but of finishing plays and capitalizing on opportunities. There were many positive takeaways from Friday night on both sides of the ball.
“On defense, we caused problems with pressure, played with great effort, and were very physical.”
With game tied 17-17 at the end of regulation, the two teams were set to go into overtime which didn’t surprise anyone who is familiar with this long-standing rivalry.
Friendswood got the first overtime opportunity but misfired with three consecutive penalties. The Mustangs were forced to settle with a 42-yard field goal and a 20-17 lead.
“We proved we are very difficult to stop when we do not get in our own way,” Johnson said. “There were flashes of great execution where we moved the ball quickly down the field and other times where we were in unfavorable down and distances because of mistakes.
“Developing consistency and the ability to finish plays will be our focus moving forward.”
Texas City got their chance in overtime and ripped off three straight running plays from the 25 to the Friendswood 14.
Running back Caleb Bell got the call and powered around left end for 14 yards to the Stangs 1.
Jadan Mallya, who’d had only one other carry in the contest, stepped in for the game-winner.
Reagan Rudolph’s 23-yard field goal and a 21-yard TD connection from Brock Foster to Adam Buffington gave Friendswood a 10-0 lead late in the first period.
Texas City’s Joey Duran answered with an 8-yard scoring scamper for the Stings for a 10-7 halftime deficit.
Foster’s 1-yard run on fourth down made it 17-7 at the 9:40 mark of the third period.
“Overall, I feel it was a step in the right direction for our program,” Johnson added. “This week, the only thing I want our players concerned with is preparing to the best of their ability each rep each day.”
Friendswood will host the Willowridge Eagles in hopes of presenting coach Johnson with his first win as the new head coach of the Mustangs. Game is scheduled for Friday, September 1 at 7:00 p.m. at Henry Winston Stadium.
