FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

CALIFORNIA 63        MANSFIELD 6

California, PA – After training 6-0 early in the first quarter, California scored 49 unanswered first half points on their way to a 63-6 win over Mansfield University in the opening game of the 2004 season for both teams.

The Mountaineer defense started the game by holding California for three plays before senior defensive end Jason Twedt blocked the ensuing punt. Will Clarke scooped up the ball at the 11-yard line and returned it for a touchdown.

But little went right for the Mountaineers after that. Sean Hair’s extra point attempt was blocked and Cal put together a three play, 85-yard drive capped off by a 15-yard run by Joe Ruggiero.

The Vulcans would not have to punt again the first half, and surprised the Mountaineers with a a high powered spread offense that racked up 503 yards in total offense in the first half to Mansfield’s 39 yards.

Mansfield fortunes changed little to start the second with California taking its opening possession and driving

It was a difficult start for first year head coach Jim Shiffer, the first alum to serve as head coach of the Mountaineers in 74-years. "We certainly didn’t expect this to happen," Shiffer said. "Hopefully we learned a lot from this experience and will use it to movitate all of us."

For the game California gain 687-yards in total offense while holding Mansfield to 64-yards. Running back Poohbear McNeal, who led the PSAC in rushing as a freshman last season, was held to 33 yards on 20 carries. Sophomore quarterback David Fetzer completed 3-of-12 passes for 21 yards with one interception. Joe Bennett had three catches for 21 yards.

Ronnie Montgomery led the defense with nine tackles, a forced fumble and one breakup. Daricus added six tackles with Mike Reed and Andre Turner each had picking up six tackles.

Jason Twedt had three tackles, blocked a punt, and recovered a fumble..

Mansfield did have success returning kicks, with Montgomery picking up 86 yards in three returns and McNeal76-yards in two returns.

The Mountaineers will try to regroup for their home opener when they host West Virginia Wesleyan next Saturday at Van Norman Field.