The No. 8 Windsor Lancer football team lost their regular season finale 46-5 to the Western Mustangs Saturday in London.
 
Despite and admirable effort from the defense, and a banner day for punter James Parker, the Lancers struggled to gain any traction on offense as they gear up for the first round of OUA playoffs next week.
 
STATS
James Parker had a fantastic day punting the ball, with nine punts for 364 yards and a booming 40.4 average, including three 'parked' inside the 20-yard-line. Western's Oliver Griffiths punted six times for 257 yards and placed one inside the 20.
 
Demir Tagani was a menace for the Lancers' defense recording three tackles for loss including two sacks. Western's Soren Hallschmid also recorded a sack.
 
GAME FLOW
After conceding a touchdown on a short field to open the game, the Lancers marched down the field on the arm of Danny Skelton. Aided by some Western fouls, the Lancers marched as far as the seven-yard-line before having to settle for a field goal, cutting the deficit to 7-3 midway through the first quarter. Unfortunately, an interception dulled the momentum for the Lancers and Western took full advantage, leading 17-3 heading into the second quarter.
 
Some precision punting by James Parker pinned the Mustangs deep in their own end. The Lancers took advantage of the field position with a safety. Trailing 17-5 with a chance to make it a one possession game, a fumble ended the Lancers' drive near midfield. The Lancers' defense stood tall, however, forcing the Mustangs to kick multiple field goals. At halftime, the Lancers trailed 23-5.
 
The Lancers defense continued making it tough on the Mustangs in the second half, but the Lancers offensive struggles continued as well. Though Windsor kept the Western rushing attack contained for most of the game, it wasn't enough as the Lancers fell to the Mustangs46-5.
 
UP NEXT
The Lancers' playoff push begins next week at Alumni Stadium when the blue and gold play host to the Queen's Gaels at 4:00pm on Saturday, October 26th. Tickets will go on sale Monday morning at goLancers.ca/tickets.