Mustangs Shut Out Covington

The George Mason High School Varsity football team got a taste of what a collegiate road trip is like, making a 240-mile bus trip to Covington last Friday. The lengthy time on the road had little effect on the Mustangs however, as they won 21 – 0 in an interesting game pitting Covington’s pass-oriented offense vs. Mason’s run-oriented attack. Mason generated over 400 yards of total offense, nearly all of it on the ground. Senior running back Stephen Williams led the Mustangs with 170 total rushing yards including a 70-yard touchdown run and one two-point conversion.

Mason head coach Tom Horn recognized the effort but noted that the team got tired at the end of the game.

“The players gave everything they had — they walked off the field with their tanks empty,” Horn said. “But to prepare for next Friday’s game, a team priority this week will be to improve conditioning.” As the game progressed each team shared similarities, with a handful of penalties assessed to each team, and both sides losing a fumble. But the timing of those turnovers favored the Mustangs.

Junior John Schwengel scored a touchdown on Mason’s first series of the game, breaking two tackles in the defensive secondary on a 52-yard run. In a strong attempt to tie the game, Covington took the ensuing kickoff and marched the ball downfield to the Mason six yard line only to lose the football on a fumble.

In the third quarter, Mason senior running back Mike Isom scored on a slashing 40-yard touchdown run, with Junior Gregg Curtin converting on the point after to extend the Mustang lead. Meanwhile, Covington struggled in the red zone, with drives stalling out at the Mason 35, 6, 22, 1, and 38.

Assistant coach Adam Amerine noted the play of the starters.

“Our team played with heart,” he said. “With a three-touchdown lead the coaching staff substituted more freely, using different player combinations to test young players in game situations.”

Eight running backs were used during the game: Senior Steve Williams (170 total rushing yards); junior John Schwengel (78); senior Mike Isom (47); junior Travis Greene (26); sophomore Alex Goetting (23); sophomore Eddie Huber (20); sophomore Jim Piscopo (19); and junior Trevor Quillin (4). Junior quarterback Eric Blush turned in a steady performance including a 30-yard pass completion. Sophomore Will Stewart also saw time at quarterback.

Mason’s record improves to 2 – 2 and Covington falls to 3 – 2. Mason’s next game is this Friday at home against Goochland High School starting at 7:30 pm.