After starting the season 2-0 for the first time in 14 years, and allowing only seven points in two games, the Albany High Cougars were looking unstoppable. However, in the Cougars’ 32-29 loss to the Monte Vista Christian Mustangs, unstoppable was exactly what the Cougars weren’t.
The Cougars started the game off well with a 70-yard kick-off return by Clifton Brown, followed by a six-yard touchdown run by Adrian Webb five plays later.
The momentum changed quickly however, as the Mustangs forced four turnovers (two interceptions and two fumbles) and ended the half leading 26-14. The Cougars stepped their game up in the second half, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the two-touchdown deficit they started with at the end of halftime.
Senior quarterback Daniel Singh went 8 for 15 with 106 yards, two touchdowns (a 10-yard to senior tight end Alex Assia, and a 3-yard to junior full back Jack Bartlet), and three interceptions.
Junior Omari Parker ran for 82 yards in 15 carries; junior Adrian Webb 27 yards in 8 carries, had two rushing touchdowns (6 yards and 1 yard), and scored a two-point conversion; and junior Clifton Brown caught 31 passing yards, ran 34 yards on 7 carries, scored a two-point conversion, and had 104 kick-return yards.
Defensive stars were juniors Dwayne Hooper, who had 11 tackles and 2 pass deflections, and Mike Gaunt, who made 10 tackles. Two Cougars made some turnovers as well: Jack Bartlet caught an interception, and senior Tarek Wally forced a fumble while making a sack, which was recovered by junior Delroy Russell.
The Cougars will have their first and only home game this Saturday, September 25, at St Mary’s against St. Liz. Everyone should come to this game and support their Cougars in their last non-league game.
Nice article Kamal.