William Woods wins football program’s first game in team history

FULTON, Mo. (KMIZ)

The first-ever crosstown showdown between William Woods and Westminster Football ends with the Owls claiming their first win in program history. William Woods head coach Julian Mendez led his team to a 50-35 win over the Blue Jays on Saturday night, securing his program's first-ever victory in its inaugural season.

The Owls were the first team to put points on the scoreboard in this contest, finding the end zone on their second drive of the game with an 18-yard touchdown pass from Gabe Serri to Brendan Dennis. William Woods' 7-0 lead eventually swelled to a 17-point advantage near the end of the first half, and Mendez's crew never lost its grip on it, holding the lead from start to finish.

Serri finished the contest with five touchdown passes, completing about 56% of his throws for 207 passing yards. Serri's top receiver was Troy Oliver, who led his team with 93 receiving yards and three trips to the end zone.

The William Woods defense also wreaked havoc on the Westminster offense, forcing three interceptions, including an 80-yard pick six from Jaylen Wiley Scruggs. He ended the game with a pair of interceptions, which complemented the Owls' pressure in the backfield. Collectively, William Woods recorded 10 tackles for loss and five sacks.

Up next - Mendez's team will work to build on the program's first-ever win when William Woods travels to face Missouri Baptist on Saturday, Sept. 28 at 1 p.m.