CAL Re-Cap: Prep Still Unbeaten, Mainland Wins, Wildwood Loses,
Now that we've reached mid-October, there are plenty of playoff implications every Friday night in the Cape-Atlantic League. Here's a look at the teams that took a big step in the title chase and the players who stole the spotlight with sensational performances.
Mainland 27, Oakcrest 0
Running back Fernando Mayers emerged as a surprise playmaker to help Mainland (2-3, 1-3 in American Conference) earn its first conference victory on Homecoming night. The Mustangs scored four rushing touchdowns and played stifling defense to dominate Oakcrest (0-6, 0-5 in American Conference).
Mayers entered the game with 10 total carries through the team’s first four contests. He matched that total early in the second quarter against Oakcrest and scored twice.
Brett Edmunds also tallied two touchdowns for Mainland. Mustangs kicker Jim Cooper converted three extra points to become the program’s all-time leader in kicking points (123), surpassing 2007 graduate Chris Malick.
He is four field goals shy of the South Jersey record.
Cedar Creek 53, Pleasantville 6
Cedar Creek (5-0, 4-0 in National Conference) emerged from its bye week in style, scoring 53 unanswered points to pummel Pleasantville (0-5, 0-4 in National Conference). Pirates quarterback Damon Mitchell made plays with his arm and his feet, scoring multiple touchdowns one week after making an official visit to the University of Wisconsin.
Teammate Gary Melton showed off his speed with an 80-yard touchdown in the second quarter. Cedar Creek led 47-6 at halftime and has now outscored opponents 183-26.
Pleasantville has suffered 26 consecutive defeats.
Absegami 28, Egg Harbor Township 7
The Braves (4-2, 3-2 in American Conference) relied on a strong rushing attack and timely defense to dismantle EHT (2-3, 2-3 in American Conference) on the road. Absegami rebounded strongly from last week’s shutout loss to Holy Spirit and solidified its NJSIAA playoff chances.
Tyler Bing blew by EHT defenders for 174 yards and three touchdowns, including an 80-yard scamper that gave the Braves a 21-7 advantage. Running back David Hood registered 142 yards rushing also scored for Absegami.
Matt Clayton reached the end zone for the Eagles lone touchdown.
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