MANDAN - Mandan secured its first victory of the season with a commanding 69-34 win over Williston on Friday night at Starion Sports Complex. With this win, Mandan improved to 1-2 in the Western Dakota Association and 1-6 overall, while Williston fell to 0-3 in the conference and 0-7 overall.

Cole Carlson led the Braves with an impressive performance, completing 13 of 15 passes for 209 yards and four touchdowns. He connected with Daniel Wentz for two scores, including a 23-yard and a 31-yard touchdown pass. Wentz finished the game with six receptions for 100 yards. Nunpa Kirkie also had a standout game on the ground, rushing 10 times for 85 yards and two touchdowns.

For the Coyotes, Leo Kendor was a bright spot, hauling in four catches for 168 yards and two touchdowns, including a spectacular 65-yard catch from quarterback Collin McCuistion. Despite McCuistion's efforts, completing 7 of 15 passes for 199 yards and two touchdowns, Williston couldn't keep pace with Mandan's high-powered offense.

The game marked Mandan's highest-scoring performance since 2022, highlighting their offensive potential as they look to build on this momentum in the coming weeks.