The wins continue to pile up, and Claymont is now one victory away from completing a perfect regular season.
The Mustangs improved to 9-0 on Friday, Oct. 16, with a victory over Garaway in an Inter-Valley Conference South showdown, continuing its historic season behind another strong defensive performance.
The Mustangs held the Pirates scoreless in the second half, while Brady Fox came away with three interceptions to help Claymont secure its ninth straight victory.
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For Claymont head coach Buddy White, the victory was another example of a team that has learned how to win.
“We did what we were supposed to do,” he said. “We were supposed to win the game. That’s what we came here to do, and we’re very fortunate to accomplish that.”
The Mustangs relied on their defense to take control of the game, while the offense worked to keep the clock moving.
The defensive unit has been a major part of Claymont’s success throughout the season, with its front six setting the tone.
“I expected it. I did not expect them to be as dominant as we are, but I knew they were going to be good,” White said. “They’ve exceeded my expectations.”
Fox delivered one of the game’s biggest performances, recording three interceptions, all coming in Claymont territory.
White credited Fox’s preparation and ability to recognize opposing offenses for his success.
“He’s a very intelligent guy. He dissects teams,” he said. “Knows what teams are doing. He’s literally calling out the plays before they line up.”
The victory also marked another milestone for the Mustangs, who reached nine wins in a season for the first time in school history.
After entering the season looking to improve on last season's playoff appearance, Claymont has transformed into one of the area’s top teams.
“When we started playing and the kids started believing, that’s what it was,” White said. “They started believing in what they were doing. They liked the feeling of dominating teams, which we’ve done.”
Now, the Mustangs face their biggest test of the season.
Claymont will take its unbeaten record into a Week 10 showdown against Indian Valley, with an IVC South championship at stake.
The Mustangs’ coach knows his team will need a cleaner performance against the Braves, particularly after several drive-killing penalties against Garaway.
“They’re not going to beat themselves. We’re going to have to play our best game,” White said. “They’re a very disciplined team, and Coach Lancaster does a phenomenal job of just keeping those kids calm.”
With a potential playoff appearance ahead, Claymont is looking to carry its momentum into the final week of the regular season.
“I’m not saying we’re invincible, but we’re going to be a hard out,” White said.
Jshondel@usatodayco.com; X: @JacoBShondeL
This article originally appeared on The Times-Reporter: Claymont football improves to 9-0, makes school history with win over Garaway