LAKEWOOD RANCH — Riding a two-game winning streak into last Friday’s Homecoming game against undefeated Cape Coral Ida Baker, Lakewood Ranch had the perfect opportunity to make a statement.

And the stage couldn’t have been more perfect for the Mustangs to earn their third consecutive victory.

Hundreds of fans decked out in a sea of green and black? Check. A proud marching band blasting the school’s fight song from the far corner of the stadium? Check. And a few dozen cheerleaders filled with team spirit? Check.

Although it quickly became apparent that Friday wasn’t going to be Lakewood’s night as the Bulldogs spoiled the Mustangs’ Homecoming party with a 37-8 victory.

Trailing 16-0 in the second quarter, Lakewood quarterback Reggie Lindsey connected with Octavious Washington on a 70-yard strike to set up a first-and-goal for the Mustangs from the 5-yard line. Running back Taryn Laws capped off the drive with a 3-yard touchdown run to cut the Bulldogs lead in half.

That would be as close as Lakewood would come to Ida Baker as the Bulldogs went on to score 21 unanswered points.

The Mustangs will have to put this game behind them and focus on securing the football and not letting opportunities pass them by if they want to be able to contend with Manatee tomorrow night. The Hurricanes (3-0), who are ranked 61st in the nation according to rivals.com, have outscored their opponents 110-29. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m.

Contact Jen Blanco at jblanco@yourobserver.com.

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