Friday night marked the first Valley Oak League game for the Oakdale Mustangs in the 2014 season. The team hosted East Union and literally ran away with it, winning 49-13 in front of the Mustang faithful.
On a night where the junior varsity set the pace with a 21-6 victory, and the frosh team winning the night before 36-0, the stage was set for a big performance by the varsity team. Answering the challenge was junior running back Darus Nelson. Nelson carried the ball 16 times, accumulated well over 200 yards and scored five rushing touchdowns in the Mustangs’ convincing win. Nelson’s speed and elusiveness had the Lancers defense scratching their heads on how to stop the Mustang running back. During his big night that included him returning punts and kickoffs on special teams, Nelson had touchdown runs of 5, 61, 60, 1, and 7 yards out.
“We had two weeks to prepare, with that bye week. We came come out and executed. I was making my cuts and had great blocking too,” Nelson said following the big win. “Shout out to offensive line, without them, we wouldn’t have won tonight.”
Oakdale’s defense was a large factor in the victory, causing two turnovers, including an interception by Brandon Davis late in the third quarter.
“I was reading the quarterback’s eyes and made the play. We all played aggressive, we had the two weeks to prepare for tonight, and everything we did in practice paid off,” said Davis.
Oakdale’s passing game also played a key part in the game that saw quarterback Adam Olsen connect with his wide receiver, Logan Hall for a late second quarter score from 12 yards out. It was a perfect birthday gift for Hall, who celebrated his sixteenth birthday Friday night.
“Adam has trust in me, we have been working hard on routes these past few weeks, and it paid off,” shared Hall.
Oakdale will now turn its attention to Weston Ranch for this Friday night, Oct. 3. The Mustangs, who hold an overall record of 4-0 and a 1-0 VOL mark, look to keep things going in a positive direction when the Cougars come to town for Homecoming. Weston Ranch has an overall record of 1-3, and is coming off a 31-20 home loss to Lathrop.
“Homecoming is always special in Oakdale. We need to focus on the football side of things, but I’m sure it will be an exciting week for everyone on campus, and hopefully we can cap it off with a win,” said Mustangs head coach Trent Merzon.
