Lakewood Ranch wins third straight over Braden River

The Lakewood Ranch High football team used a steady ground game and a relentless defensive attack to capture its third straight victory over rival Braden River tonight.

The Mustangs defeated the Pirates 21-7 in the season opener for both teams.

Lakewood took a 7-0 lead midway through the first quarter on a 2-yard carry by quarterback Chad Rex.

Braden River responded in the second quarter on Eric Schappacher’s 3-yard quarterback keeper to tie the game 7-7 at halftime.

Lakewood regained the lead with 1:03 left in the third quarter when A'Shawn Angel ran 50 yards for a touchdown. The Mustangs sealed their victory on Rex's 53-yard touchdown run with 3:52 remaining in regulation.

Lakewood returns to action Sept. 7 at Southeast while Braden River hosts North Port.

For a complete story on tonight’s East County rivalry pick up the Sept. 6 issue of the East County Observer.