(McAllen, Texas)-“We are the Champions” by rock legends, Queen played throughout the loud speakers as the 16-5A DI McAllen Memorial Mustangs (10-1) celebrated their 50-28 win over 15-5A DI Victoria West (6-5) on Thursday night in the Class 5A DI Bi-District Championships at McAllen Veterans Memorial Stadium. With the win, the Mustangs will advance to the area playoffs and will play 13-5A DI San Antonio Lanier (8-2) or 14-5A DI San Antonio Southside (5-5) next Saturday in Corpus Christi at Cabaniss Field. Kickoff is set for 3:00 p.m. “It’s been fun,” said interim head football coach, Moses Patterson. “I have a lot of joy and pride. The big, big, message is our journey and trying to extend this journey. Right now, we are having fun.”
On Thursday night, the Mustangs started sophomore quarterback, Derek Silva in place of injured starting quarterback, JP Cortez (6’1 175lbs) who is out for the season with a knee injury after leading the Mustangs to seven straight wins in the regular season. Silva stayed under center and did a great job handing off the ball to running backs Marcos De la Cruz, Max Alaniz-Choy, and Ethan Castillo. Choy had a big night rushing for five touchdowns and 289 yards on 23 carries. But, Patterson gave credit to his defense. “Our defense are the unsung heroes. Our defense coordinator, JR Cantu along with DT Marcos De Ochoa, DT Mark Villarreal, LB Juan Fuentes, and our safeties, Jalen and Jaden Muhammad deserve plenty of credit tonight,” added Patterson. “At the start of the season, we wanted the family atmosphere and we wanted to make these opportunities part of a team effort. Max did have a big night with five touchdowns and he was able to do a lot.”
The Mustangs offensive line opened up plenty of gaps as trio of running backs rushed for 445 yards and seven touchdowns while limited the Warriors to 154 total yards throughout the night. “Victoria West is a good team and that sophomore QB Braden Luedeker has a bright future. He will be a player to watch,” says Patterson.
