Three-TD surge propels Agassi Prep

In a game marked by penalties, turnovers and defensive prowess, both offenses had trouble gaining their footing from the outset.

Agassi Prep (4-1, 3-1 Division III Southern League) trailed 6-0 in the fourth quarter and faced third-and-long on its 14-yard line. But Williams ran untouched for a tying 86-yard touchdown. Alex Placido-Reyes’ extra point gave the Stars their first lead.

The score shifted the momentum. The Stars’ defense stifled the Mustangs on their next possession, and Agassi Prep then drove 65 yards in six plays to score on a 1-yard run by quarterback Stephan Laushaul. He rushed for 89 yards.

Trailing 14-6, Needles (2-2, 2-1) was forced to pass, which led to the Stars’ third touchdown of the quarter when junior defensive back Deishuan Booker intercepted Aidan Shaver and returned it for a score.

The Mustangs had held opponents scoreless for 11 consecutive quarters until Williams’ touchdown. Agassi Prep’s defense kept the team within striking distance by holding the Mustangs to 20 yards rushing in the second half.

Needles enjoyed more success in the first half, driving close enough to attempt three field goals. Sophomore kicker Mauricio Santos made his third attempt, a 38-yarder, to give the Mustangs a 3-0 halftime lead. Santos, who attempted six field goals overall, made a 41-yarder with 9:38 left in the third quarter to make it 6-0.

Junior running back Kobee McCorkle led the Mustangs with 62 yards on 17 carries.