LAS VEGAS, N.M. - Western New Mexico University Football met with New Mexico Highlands for the 14th time since 2003 tonight, playing in the La Batalla Bowl. NMHU defeated the Mustangs 69-55, tying the rivalry record 7-7 (since 2003). 

The first quarter opened dramatically with New Mexico Highlands University returning the kickoff 95-yards for a touchdown. WNMU responded with a methodical drive, highlighted by Connor Ackerley (Tempe, Arizona/Corona Del Sol High School) completing a 29-yard pass to Anthony Flores (Casa Grande, AZ/Casa Grande Union High School) and an 18-yard touchdown pass to Derrick Sailor (Glendale, AZ/Copper Canyon High School) at 11:34, making the score at 7-7. Despite the offense making plays, penalties and a late interception halted the Mustangs' momentum, as the Cowboys capitalized to close the quarter leading 28-7. 

In the second quarter, the Cowboys punched in a rushing touchdown making the score 35-7. The Mustangs quickly responded with a touchdown, as Ackerley delivered an 84-yard touchdown pass to Sailor at 13:48, cutting the deficit to 35-14. Ackerley remained effective, engineering a robust drive later in the quarter, that culminated in a 7-yard rushing touchdown by Zay Savoie (Apache Junction, AZ/Red Mountain High School) with 4:22 left in the half, bringing the score to 35-21. Despite the Cowboys extending their lead with a field goal, the Mustangs continued to press forward, with Ackerley connecting with Deuce Zimmerman (Anchorage, AK/East Anchorage High School) for a 2-yard touchdown pass with 31 seconds remaining, ending the half at 38-28.

The third quarter saw the Mustangs making strategic plays, highlighted by Ackerley's 19-yard touchdown pass to Flores at 9:21, reducing the deficit to 38-34. The momentum continued with Ackerley connecting with Jacob Helt (Chandler, AZ/Corona Del Sol High School) for a 30-yard touchdown, although both point-after attempts were blocked. Western's defense made a critical stand when Clayton Zentner (Corona, CA/Norco High School) forced a fumble, recovered by Cole Lalama (Queen Creek, AZ/Queen Creek High), but the Cowboys responded quickly, including an 80-yard touchdown run by Jeffery Jones at 9:00, maintaining their lead as the quarter concluded 48-40. The game featured a remarkable 1287 total offensive yards between the two teams, setting a new record for La Batalla Bowl history.

The fourth quarter opened with the Mustangs' Ackerley overcoming an early setback, rushing for 20 yards on a critical third down and completing a 20-yard pass to Gabriel Levy (Tucson, AZ/Cienega High School), setting up a touchdown and tying the game at 48 with 11:01 remaining. Ackerley continued to lead a resilient offense, connecting with Zimmerman on a 20-yard touchdown pass that briefly gave the Mustangs a 55-55 tie with 7:30 left on the clock. Despite a strong offensive effort, the Cowboys responded with a series of scores, ultimately securing a 69-55 victory, as the game concluded with a tense final drive by the Mustangs that fell short in the closing seconds. The 124 combined scored points set a new high in La Batalla Bowl history.

Ackerley led the offensive charge with 529 passing yards on 34 completions from 57 attempts, throwing seven touchdowns. Ackerley throws for the most passing touchdowns in the modern era (since 2011) and is in second with passing yards in a gam. Sailor made significant contributions with five receptions totaling 159 yards and two touchdowns. Zimmerman added to the aerial attack with nine catches for 92 yards and two touchdowns. On defense, Lalama recovered a fumble and posted seven total tackles.

For the Cowboys, running back Jones delivered an impressive performance with 385 rushing yards on 24 carries and four touchdowns. Quarterback Ike Udengwu contributed with 135 passing yards, completing 6 of 12 attempts, including a touchdown pass. Receiver Mason Peterson showcased versatility by rushing for 28 yards on seven attempts while adding a 43-yard touchdown reception. On defense, freshman Awsten Turnbow led the unit with 11 tackles, one interception, and a blocked kick. 

The Mustangs are now 1-1 overall and will come back to Silver City, opening up LSC play at Ben Altamirano Field, against West Texas A&M. Kickoff for First Responders Night will be at 6:00pm.