Western New Mexico University’s football team was defeated by Central Washington University, 91-31, in a Lone Star Conference matchup at Ben Altamirano Field on Saturday. The loss brings the Mustangs’ record to 1-4 overall and 0-3 in conference play. Western New Mexico has not beaten Central Washington since 2003.
Central Washington established control early, scoring 35 points in the first quarter and finishing with 334 rushing yards and five touchdowns. Justice Taylor led the Wildcats with 169 rushing yards and three touchdowns. "Justice Taylor's 30-yard and 40-yard touchdown runs highlighted a ground game that amassed 169 yards and three rushing touchdowns," according to the university.
The Mustangs’ offense responded through the air, with quarterback Connor Ackerley passing for 378 yards and four touchdowns on 29-of-51 attempts but also throwing three interceptions. Deuce Zimmerman caught seven passes for 96 yards and scored three touchdowns, while Davey Morales contributed with twelve receptions for 143 yards and one touchdown.
Central Washington capitalized on turnovers throughout the game. In the second quarter, Mika Roberson intercepted an Ackerley pass, setting up a short touchdown run by Kennedy McGill. Beau Phillips returned two kickoffs for touchdowns for Central Washington’s special teams unit.
Defensively, Bradly Harris led Western New Mexico with seven tackles. For Central Washington, Roberson recorded seven tackles and an interception, while Logan Lisherness made eight tackles.
The Mustangs will travel to Monmouth, Oregon to face Western Oregon at McArthur Field on Saturday, October 4th at 2:05 pm MT.
Western New Mexico University is part of NCAA Division II and competes in the Lone Star Conference. More information about Mustang Athletics can be found at www.wnmumustangs.com or via their social media channels @WNMUathletics (X, TikTok & Instagram).
