Silver City, N.M. – The Mustangs of Western New Mexico University's Football team got to play their first game in 480 days at a sold out crowd of all 500 people at Ben Altamirano Field. The Mustangs took on UT Permian Basin, Saturday afternoon in a 31-6 loss.

"It was great to be back on the field. For some of our guys it had been almost three years since they last played in a game" said Head Football Coach Frank Tristan.

The Mustangs made some crucial mistakes and the Falcons capitalized. Today's game was the Falcons' third game this season, as they are nearing midseason form.

WNMU's only score on the day was in the 2nd quarter. A 4-yard touchdown pass from Brandon Ziarno (Melbourne, FL/Melbourne Central Catholic) to Michael Martinez (Rosenberg, TX/Terry HS) close the Falcon gap 7-6. The extra point was blocked and was ran back for two Falcon points, making the score 9-6.

The Falcons got on the board first, after blocking a punt. Falcons QB Clayton Roberts threw a 10-yard touchdown pass to MJ Link.

The very next possession, deep in the own territory, Ziarno was intending a pass to Josh Powell but was intercepted by UTPB's Donta Stuart. The Falcons extended their lead 12-6, by getting just a field after starting in the red zone.

The Mustangs hit a standstill as the 2nd quarter neared an end. As for UTPB Roberts connected with Baylon Ware for a 49-yard touchdown. UTPB extended their lead 19-6.

With 1:27 left on the clock, the Mustangs ran four plays, eating the clock only 17 seconds, giving the ball back to UTPB. Roberts and the Falcons were driving and get a big pass interference call by John Ofahengaue (Laie, HI/Kahuku HS). In the next play, Ofahengaue redeemed himself getting the first Mustang interception of the season with 12.4 seconds left.

One the one-yard line, Ziarno looked to pass his way upfield but was hurried and threw a ball with no one around. The Falcons got a safety after Ziarno was called for intentional grounding in their end zone. The falcons went into the half leading 21-6.

Falcons dominated possession the 3rd quarter having the ball for more than 10 minutes. The Falcons would use their momentum and kick a field goal to start the 4th quarter.

Ziarno and the Mustangs knew they needed to attack but UTPB's Stuart had other plans after getting his second pick of the game, running it back 43-yards for a pick-6. 

"Our execution wasn't great, but we will fix that. Our effort and execution will align by the next game" said Tristan.

Ziarno and Powell linked up for 6 catches, resulting in 91 yards. Powell led all receivers in receiving yards. 

Mustangs to Highlight:

B. Ziarno: 15-35 for 142 yards, 1 TD, 2 INT, 11 rushes for 33 yards, netting just 3

D. Blanks: 6 rushes for 25 yards

J. Powell: 6 catches for 91 yards, 1 Fumble

M. Martinez: 3 catches for 27 yards, TD

Coach Tristan concluded by saying "Our guys played with great effort and stuck together. That's important because we can control that."

The Mustangs are hopeful for another game this season. WNMU Athletics will announce if and when a game will be scheduled.