Scanning The Scene With Ed Sarluca
We are now in week 11 of Jersey Shore football and the semi-finals of the playoffs are in the books. While 5 teams are still alive to play for a State Championship, 7 teams took a major hit and now must look to Thanksgiving as their last game of the 2009 season. Here is what happened in a wild week of playoff football:
In 2 of the most exciting games you will ever see, Manasquan scores 2 TDs in the last 1:24, on the road, at Rumson to win and advance, 23-11. In the other unbelievable ending, Brick Memorial came back from 28-7, to score 24 unanswered points in the 4th quarter, to stun Howell, 31-28. Let’s break these 2 down.
Manasquan(9-1) had a lead of 9-2, until Rumson(9-1) took the lead with 1:30 left on the clock, 11-9. That’s when the fireworks began. First was a kickoff that Squan’s Zack Ogden fielded on his 5 and went down from a tremendous hit on the Squan 24 yard line. The hit was so dynamic, it knocked Ogden out of the game, as he was carried off the field. With the trainer working on Ogden on the sidelines, QB C.J. Davis hit Ryland McTighe for 28 yards and the “Big Blue” had the ball on the “Bulldog” 48 yard line. 2 plays later, Ogden trotted back onto the field and into the Squan huddle, Davis rolled right and hit a streaking Ogden on the left sideline for a 39 yard gain, and Manasquan had the ball on the 9 yard line. RB Dan Sullivan took care of the rest, with a 9 yard TD carry, and Squan re-took the lead, after just 35 ticks had come off the clock. Corner-back Neal Sterling sealed it with 38 yard pick six and Manasquan had themselves a 23-11 victory, and a chance to play for their 12th State Championship on Dec. 4th at 7PM, on the campus of TCNJ. If you don’t believe what I just told you, you can listen to the calls on the shoresportsnetwork.com, since it was our game of the week.
In the other stunner, Brick Memorial ran 80 plays from scrimmage to Howells 34, they amassed 342 yards on offense to Howell’s 253(including just 7 yards rushing), had 23 first downs to 11 for Howell and scored 24 points in the 4th quarter to stun the Rebels 31-28. This game came down to 1 key play which turned the whole game around. It occurred at the 10:52 mark of the 4th quarter, when a host of Memorial tacklers trapped QB Jimmy Ryan in his own end-zone, for a safety, to make the score 28-16. Howell was never the same after the safety, as Memorial’s Jihaad Howard, ran the ensuing kickoff back 51 yards and 2:26 ticks later, Glenn McGinnis scored to make it 28-23 and Howell was in trouble. Memorial got the ball back with 5:55 left and used all but 8.6 seconds, to score the game winner on a Mike DiGuilmi to Glenn McGinnis TD pass. With Howell trying numerous laterals and backward passes the game finally ended on their own 30yard line, which set off a raucous celebration in the center of the Rebel field. Brick Memorial will try to make it back to back championships in CJ Group 4, as they now play for their 3rd State Championship in the last 7 years.
While these 2 games certainly provided their fans enough excitement to last till, well, to at least Thanksgiving Day, Matawan took care of business early and often and demolished a pretty good Raritan team, 46-7. QB Jarrod Allison and McArthur Underwood proved why they are 2 of the most exciting players in the shore. Underwood ran for 3 TDs in the 1st half, on runs of 5, 15 and 80 and Allison ran for 2TDs and threw for 1 as the Huskies ran for 346 total yards, and held Raritan to only 57 on the ground. Matawan will now try to crack the team with the most championships in the trophy case, Manasquan. This has all the makings of a classic. The methodical, disciplined, controlled offense of Manasquan, vs. the game breaking capabilities of Matawan. Who possesses the best defense, just might decide this one. The Huskies have given up 117 points to Manasquan’s 93. Pretty even there, while Matawan has scored 95 more points on offense, edge to Matawan. Too bad numbers don’t win football games. My pick, you’ll have wait till next week, after Turkey Day games. Manasquan will visit 7-2 Wall, while Matawan will visit S J Vianney. These are obviously trap games for both schools, as their opponents may catch the state final participants looking down the road. Coaches beware; it could be your toughest job of the year.
Asbury Park(9-1) will play for their 3rd CJ Group 1 championship in a row. Quite impressive for a school that wasn’t even on the map, 4 years ago. Asbury Park’s head coach Don Sofilkanich, has done a tremendous job since he has been at Asbury. They have bought into his guidance and leadership and they have moved to the highest level of respect in the shore. RB/S George Stephens continues to impress, and will try to end his career with those 3 championships. He is the leader of the Bishops on the field, and makes them go. Discipline, desire and dedication are 3 words that can best describe Mr. Stephens. I’ll make this call right now. Make some room in the trophy case!
Middletown South(10-0) remains as the only unbeaten team in the shore. They beat Neptune for the 2nd time this year and look to claim their 10th championship in their storied history. With a dominating defense led by LB Sean Campbell, the Eagles have not allowed more than 1 TD in any game this year. They scored all 17 points in the first half and held off Neptune(7-3), 17-6. RB Kyle Bunge and QB Scott Meeker lead an offense that has scored 292 points on the year, that’s almost 30/game. So when people say they are all about defense, look at the offense and you’ll see why they are undefeated. They draw a different opponent this year, in the finals, with Monroe’s win over Ocean by a 31-20 score. Monroe is 9-1 so far this season, and is very capable on offense. Guess what? The Falcons better live in the film room and break down the Eagle defense, or it will be a long afternoon on Dec. 5th.
Those are the 4 teams left from the shore. They carry the best wishes from the other 39 teams who will put the equipment away after this week’s Thanksgiving Day games. Let’s look at some of the tough luck losers this week.
Of all the disappointments over the weekend, none were bigger than the 41-30 loss by Toms River East against Egg Harbor Twp. This was to be the year the Raiders(9-1) got the monkey off their back and win that elusive first championship in school history. They have the best player in the shore(in my opinion), in Nico Steriti, they had a senior led team that came in 9-0 and was playing at a very high level, they had a Constitution Division title already in the bag, Mario Steriti ran the opening kick-off back 76 yards for a TD and they were off and running, they had a lead in the 4th quarter after brother Nico led the Raiders from the “wildcat” formation, to a TD with 9:35 left in the contest, but it just wasn’t meant to be, as the next 13 seconds will be forever on the minds of T R East. Egg Harbor(10-0) returned the kickoff 80 yards for a TD and the Eagles regained the lead 34-30, a lead they would never lose. East would have 1 more chance as they held and forced a punt in the middle of the 4th quarter, but Egg Harbor used a fake punt to pick up a first down and a few minutes later scored from 1yard out for the clinching TD and the 41-30 win. A win that advances them to the SJ Group 4 championship against top seeded Cherokee(10-0). The Raiders must regroup quickly as a good football team and cross-town rival T R North(8-2) awaits on Friday night. Will this loss in the semi’s define T R East’s season? I don’t think so; this is an outstanding program, run very well by Charlie Diskin and his staff. There will be other chances down the road to win that title, but the sting of this loss will hurt for a while. It just wasn’t meant to be in 2009, but you have nothing to be ashamed of. It has been a great season and another lesson has been learned, which will help future Raider players, as this program is on solid ground.
Lacey(7-3) came up on the short end of a 13-2 score against Timber Creek from Gloucester Township. The story here, was turnovers, as Lacey just never recovered from a fumble at the 1 yard line which cost them 6 points and a possible tie at 7-7. After the fumble, Lacey did record a safety to make it 7-2, but a 23 yard run for a score by Timber Creek iced it for the “Chargers”, and they will advance to the finals against a good Hammonton team. Lacey concludes their season against Central on Saturday afternoon, the last time these 2 rivals will play on Thanksgiving weekend.
In non-playoff action, Mon Don used 2 field goals by Anthony Huth to edge Manchester 6-3. This concludes the outstanding season QB Kevin Cater had this year, and also capped a 6-4 season for the Dan Duddy led team. Manchester finished at 5-5.
Pinelands also finished on a winning note, with their 36-32 win over a John Amabile led Allentown team that finished 4-6 in his first season at Allentown. Pinelands 5-5 record was the first time they have finished at .500 in 5 years.
Now the senseless Thanksgiving weekend football games are upon us. Not senseless in the fact that these games are played, but it’s when they are played that bothers me. The archaic system of New Jersey High School football playoffs and the way they are played must be changed. To have to wait 2 weeks to play the finals, just doesn’t make sense! Then you ask a team to play a game in between, makes no sense at all. Believe me, this is not the first time you are hearing this from someone who would like to play 3 weeks in a row, and to further expand the playoffs to get an over-all group champion, but maybe one of these years, the people who make these decisions will figure it out. Enough from my point of view, enjoy your holiday, enjoy your game on Thursday morning or Friday night, whenever your favorite team plays and save some antipasto and stuffed mushrooms for me when I come visit.
Here is this week’s new Top Ten:
1-Middletown South(10-0) The best defense in the shore, makes them the best team in the shore. I’ve had them there all here and see no reason why they don’t end up as #1.
2-Matawan(9-1) Can we now stop the talk about whether this team is for real? They are the real deal, as they pummeled Raritan for the 2nd time this year and cruised into CJ 2 finals. Now they must deal with the shore’s best playoff team in recent history, 11 time champion, Manasquan.
3-Manasquan(9-1) The miracle on “Ridge Road” is what they are calling last Friday night’s victory over a solid Rumson team. When you think you have them down, they rise to the occasion every time. A tough Wall(7-2) team will not be an easy one on Thanksgiving morning.
4-Howell(8-2) Devastating loss to Brick Memorial knocked them from playoffs, but not from being a top five team.
5-T R East(9-1) Another great year ends in disappointment in semi-finals as frustrated Raiders must regroup quickly and face TR North on Friday night.
6-TR North(7-2)What could have been, as they sat and watched last weekend. Can salvage an 8-2 season with a “W” against cross-town rival TR East.
7-Rumson(9-1) Tough team, tough loss to Manasquan which knocked them from playoffs and from unbeaten ranks. Tough closing game against RBC.
8-Brick Memorial(6-4) In last 3 weeks the Mustangs have beaten 3 teams with a combined 25-5 record. They will defend their CJ 4 crown against East Brunswick, a team they have beaten already, but before that face a Brick team looking to finish .500 on year.
9-Asbury Park(9-1) The little giant that gets no respect! They look to win their 3rd straight CJ Group 1 championship.
10-Lacey(7-3) Tough loss at the hands of Timber Creek knocked them out of playoffs, in a game which they just could not get into end-zone. Solid season ends with Central on Sat afternoon.
Just outside looking in: Raritan(7-3) Long Branch(6-3) Neptune(7-3) Ocean(7-3) Wall(7-2)
No Thursday night football show this week because of Turkey Day, but 2 games will be broadcast on shore sports network. Wed night the Jackson Liberty vs. Jackson Memorial game at 6pm and Thursday morning, Wall vs. Manasquan at 11am. Join us on the radio or on line for these 2 games.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Weekend Of 11/13 - 11/15
Scanning the High School Football Scene with Ed Sarluca:
We started with 18 and we are down to 12, as the first week of the State H.S. playoffs are off and running. With 12 getting by, I would consider it a very successful opening weekend to the 2009 playoffs. There are 3 #1 seeds still alive (Middletown South(9-0), Asbury Park(8-1) and Matawan(8-1)). We are guaranteed at least 1 State winner(CJ 2), where the 4 teams who remain are all from the shore. There will be 3 rematches in the semi-finals. CJ 4 will have an all-shore matchup in the bottom bracket, as Howell(8-1) and Brick Memorial(5-4) will play again this year. Howell won a 37-27 game in Oct. Middletown South and Neptune(7-2) will have a second game in CJ 3, with Mid South having beaten Neptune 16-0 earlier this year. As a matter of fact, Neptune has not beaten Mid South since 1998. Matawan and Raritan(7-2) will go at it again in CJ 2. Matawan won by 30-7 the first time they played. These games show the excellence in shore football, as all except Raritan, beat out of area teams on their way to the semi’s. Rumson(9-0) will put its undefeated record up against a very good Manasquan(8-1) team. This very well may be the best matchup of the weekend, as they are 2 evenly matched teams. Lacey(7-2), had its un-scored upon streak broken on Sat., but prevailed 33-14 over Pemberton. Toms River East(9-0), try’s to win its first championship ever, and they will have to do it on the road, as they travel to #2 seed Egg Harbor(9-0). Ocean(7-2) will travel to Monroe in another CJ 3 game, and Asbury Park(8-1) looks for their 3rd championship in a row in CJ 1 and gets Brearley in the semi’s. We know now, all of these teams are well coached, and are playing their best football of the year, at the right time. The high level of shore football excellence is clearly evident with the quality of the remaining teams. Let’s look how they got there:
Perhaps the biggest upset of the week occurred in Hunterdon Central as the 5-4 Mustangs of Brick Memorial, seeded #6, shocked the #3 seed by a 21-17 score. With time running out, a Mike DiGuilmi to Cody Cutter 40 yard TD pass with 19 seconds remaining was the game winner for the “Stangs”. The Mustangs ran for 410 yards on the night and dominated the Red Devils, but needed the TD pass to win it. The Mustangs seem to rise to the occasion in the playoffs and are the defending CJ 4 champs. It won’t be easy for them to get to the finish line, as they must get by 2 opponent that have beaten them already; Howell and probably #1 seed Sayreville. None the less, Brick Memorial will not be an easy out for either team.
Raritan used 2 picks by Kevin Furlong, both of which, were returned for TDs to upset the #4 seed Green Wave of Long Branch 28-7. Jessie Raymond(174 yards) proved why he is one of the top backs in the shore, as he tore through the Wave repeatedly. Notre Dame bound Bennett Jackson hit a “rocket” screen for 67 yards and a touch, after he had a 91 screen pass called back. Jackson also kicked field goals of 35 and 37 yards. Next up, Raritan gets a rematch with Matawan, who defeated them 30-7 on Sept 25th. Raritan has 1 title in the trophy case, 2004 when they won CJ 2.
In a driving rain storm on Friday night, the Raiders of TR East used Nico Steriti not once, nor twice, but 45 times for 206 yards and 3 TDs. Nico was my pre-season player of the year, and he certainly has made me look good, as he scored his 26th, 27th and 28th TD of the year. Sr. QB Charlie Diskin threw a 23 yard TD to Anthony Chiacchio, to put the game away in the 4th quarter. With winds howling at 40-50 miles per hour and the rain driving sideways into the faces of the Raiders, Diskin hit for 3 of 4 passes in key situations of the game to aid the running of Steriti. #2 seed, Egg Harbor(9-0), is next for the #3 seed Raiders, as they try to win their first championship in the 30 year history of East. If Nico has anything to say about that, the trophy may very well be sitting in the East showcase come December.
The Bishops of Asbury Park may have found a new way to get the ball to power runner George Stephens. As Stephens is closing in on 1000 rushing yards, it was his pass catching ability( 120 yards) on Sat afternoon that led them to a 22-6 win over Shore Reg. Stephens accounted for all 3 TDs vs. Shore, 2 on the ground and 1 in the air. The win was the second time Asbury has beaten Shore(13-10 on opening day) and put them one step closer to their 3rd consecutive CJ 1 championship. Quite a feat for a program that struggled to a 1-9 record 4 years ago. Next up is David Brearley, at home, on Sat. afternoon.
Matawan, the top seed in CJ 2, easily beat New Brunswick on Sat. night 37-13. The Zebra’s had come into this one a hot team and Matawan jumped all over them and never let up. QB Jared Allison ran for 2 TDs and threw 2 TDs to lead the Huskies to the easy victory. Matawan is peaking at the right time, but will have to continue to play well, as Raritan will test them this week. The Huskies took no prisoners(30-7) the first time around, and revenge is on the minds of the Rockets. Matawan is looking for their first title since 1992.
Rumson remains unbeaten with a shutout win over A.L. Johnson 23-0. Always reliable John Riley, ran for 117 yards and a TD and the Bulldog defense held A.L. Johnson to 3 first downs and 50 total yards. The Rumson “D” was so dominate, that Johnson did not have a first down in the 2nd half. They recorded 4 sacks, had 2 turnovers and blocked a punt. Now you see why this team is undefeated! It doesn’t get any easier for them, as 11 time State Champions, Manasquan comes to town on Friday night. Rumson has never won a State title. The Shore Sports Network will broadcast that one on 1160 WOBM AM and Fox Sports 1310 am as well as 105.7 The Hawk.
Lacey, although scored upon, got it going big in the 2nd half, and cruised to a 33-14 win over Pemberton. Jarrod Molzon(213 yards) filling in for Jake Dabal(167 yards) had himself a huge 2nd half, after Dabal left with a pulled muscle in his side. These 2 RBs are only juniors as is QB Craig Cicardo, so the Lions are set for next year, but they aren’t thinking about next year just yet. They have their eyes on the prize this year and are playing very well at the right time. The Lions travel to Timber Creek this week for the semi-finals.
Neptune put 51 on the board vs. Lawrence, as RBs Ike Calderone(118 yards) and Charlie Davis(111 yards) led the Flier attack. Neptune led 37-7 at the half and cruised in the 2nd half and gets a rematch with a team they haven’t beaten since 1998, Middletown South. That streak includes a 16-0 win this year. Neptune last won the state title in 1986.
Playing without their starting QB C.J. Davis, due to disciplinary reasons, Manasquan defense came up big in a 14-7 victory over Keyport on Sunday. Soph QB Tyler Saito filled in admirably for Davis as he threw for 126 yards and had a rushing TD for the Blue Warriors. Manasquan will look for their shore leading 12th championship as they continue the run in CJ 2, when they travel to Rumson on Friday night.
Middletown South, the #1 seed in CJ 3, demolished West Windsor North by a 43-6 score. Kyle Bunge ran for 141 yards and 3 TDs to lead the Eagles to the easy victory. The Eagles have not won the whole thing since 2006, losing to Freehold Boro in last year’s final.
Howell Twp. the #2 seed in CJ 4 playing on Monday night due to field conditions, which didn’t look too bad to me, beat an undermanned Montgomery team 41-18. Jimmy Ryan, the shore’s best QB, threw for 5 TD passes in only 3 quarters of action, as the Rebels parlayed turnovers and field position, into points and more points. Howell continues next Sat. night, at 6pm, against Brick Memorial, a team it beat 37-27 earlier in the year.
Ocean, last won a State title in 2005 under Sal Spampanato, looks to win one with Coach Don Klein, in CJ 3. The shutout victory over Steinert(35-0) gets them to the semi’s against a good Monroe team on the road. Brandon Robinson, Greg Moore and Christian Bailoni, R.J. D’Apolito and Kevin Rodgers lead the “Big Red” in their quest.
Losing last weekend were Toms River North, who put up a game effort vs. Williamstown, who won their first ever state tournament game, 21-13, and Middletown North, who lost to #1 seed Sayreville in CJ 4 by a 21-0 score.
Top Ten-Week 10(Nov. 17th)
1-Middletown South(9-0) Impressive as ever in 1st round. Get a rematch with Neptune(16-0-first time around) who have not beaten them since 1998, enough said!
2-Toms River East(9-0) Got the job done vs. Wash Twp. in horrendous weather on Friday night. Nico Steriti(45 carries for 206 yds. and 3 TDs) proved to everyone he is a candidate for “Player of the Year”.
3-Howell(8-1) finally played their 1st round game after 2 postponements(why the second one on Sunday is a mystery??). Their reward, a rematch with Playoff savvy defending CJ Group 4 champions, Brick Memorial, a 21-17 winner over previously unbeaten, 9-0, Hun. Cen.
4-Matawan(9-1) The Huskies have made a statement that this could be their year back to the championship, which has eluded them, since 1992. They get Raritan, who they have defeated already 30-7, earlier this year.
5-Rumson(9-0) Anyone unbeaten at this point deserves a top 5 spot. The “Dawgs” have answered every caller and now host Manasquan who have won 11 championships in their storied history. This is the game of the week!
6-Toms River North(7-2) The Mariners suffered their 2nd loss of the year vs. Williamstown on Sat. night(21-13). I witnessed the problem that has plagued North throughout the year; a failure to get the ball into the end zone. Drew Kollman was the best player on the field, but he was not enough as the Mariners now set their sights on cross-town rival TR East on Friday Nov. 27 at 7pm at East.
7-Manasquan(-8-1) In a game played on Sunday, the Warriors playing with a back-up at QB, beat Keyport 14-7. This 1st round win gets them a trip to unbeaten Rumson, on Friday night, in the game of the week in the shore.
8-Raritan(7-2) Because of the rain this weekend, I was also able to see this postponed game vs. Long Branch. They were the better team on the field Sat afternoon, as they won 28-7. A rematch with Matawan awaits the Rockets, which will be played Sat. night at 6PM.
9-Lacey(7-2) The Lions scoreless string was snapped, but they took care of Pemberton 33-14 on Sat. afternoon. They now travel to Timber Creek for a semi-final contest.
10-Asbury Park(8-1) The Bishops are more than capable of getting their 3rd straight CJ Group 1 championship this year. Up next is Brearley at home Sat. afternoon at noon.
Just outside looking in:
Ocean(7-2)- Still alive in tough CJ 3. Must visit tough, Monroe HS, this Friday night at 7PM.
Neptune(7-2) they better be ready, as Middletown South awaits a visit on Friday night.
Brick Memorial(5-4) The Mustangs know how to win in the playoffs. Their tough Group 4 schedule has helped them out.
Long Branch(6-3)- I’ll keep them in the almost top ten. One game remains, and that should be a “W” on Turkey day vs. Red Bank.
We received many complimentary comments on our Thursday night interview with Ron Signorino Sr. In case you would like to hear it again, or may have missed it the first time, check it out on line on the audio page at shoresportsnetwork.com, where every Thursday football shows can be heard.
This week at Boston’s we will have on site, none other than the legendary Warren Wolf. Also on the phone line will be former RBC player and now Temple University Head Coach, Al Golden. This is sure to be a great 2 hours of football talk. We will breakdown the 1st round of the State games and look to the semi’s this weekend. That’s Thursday night at 6-8PM at Boston’s Sports bar and Restaurant on the corner of Fischer and Hooper Ave in Toms River.
We started with 18 and we are down to 12, as the first week of the State H.S. playoffs are off and running. With 12 getting by, I would consider it a very successful opening weekend to the 2009 playoffs. There are 3 #1 seeds still alive (Middletown South(9-0), Asbury Park(8-1) and Matawan(8-1)). We are guaranteed at least 1 State winner(CJ 2), where the 4 teams who remain are all from the shore. There will be 3 rematches in the semi-finals. CJ 4 will have an all-shore matchup in the bottom bracket, as Howell(8-1) and Brick Memorial(5-4) will play again this year. Howell won a 37-27 game in Oct. Middletown South and Neptune(7-2) will have a second game in CJ 3, with Mid South having beaten Neptune 16-0 earlier this year. As a matter of fact, Neptune has not beaten Mid South since 1998. Matawan and Raritan(7-2) will go at it again in CJ 2. Matawan won by 30-7 the first time they played. These games show the excellence in shore football, as all except Raritan, beat out of area teams on their way to the semi’s. Rumson(9-0) will put its undefeated record up against a very good Manasquan(8-1) team. This very well may be the best matchup of the weekend, as they are 2 evenly matched teams. Lacey(7-2), had its un-scored upon streak broken on Sat., but prevailed 33-14 over Pemberton. Toms River East(9-0), try’s to win its first championship ever, and they will have to do it on the road, as they travel to #2 seed Egg Harbor(9-0). Ocean(7-2) will travel to Monroe in another CJ 3 game, and Asbury Park(8-1) looks for their 3rd championship in a row in CJ 1 and gets Brearley in the semi’s. We know now, all of these teams are well coached, and are playing their best football of the year, at the right time. The high level of shore football excellence is clearly evident with the quality of the remaining teams. Let’s look how they got there:
Perhaps the biggest upset of the week occurred in Hunterdon Central as the 5-4 Mustangs of Brick Memorial, seeded #6, shocked the #3 seed by a 21-17 score. With time running out, a Mike DiGuilmi to Cody Cutter 40 yard TD pass with 19 seconds remaining was the game winner for the “Stangs”. The Mustangs ran for 410 yards on the night and dominated the Red Devils, but needed the TD pass to win it. The Mustangs seem to rise to the occasion in the playoffs and are the defending CJ 4 champs. It won’t be easy for them to get to the finish line, as they must get by 2 opponent that have beaten them already; Howell and probably #1 seed Sayreville. None the less, Brick Memorial will not be an easy out for either team.
Raritan used 2 picks by Kevin Furlong, both of which, were returned for TDs to upset the #4 seed Green Wave of Long Branch 28-7. Jessie Raymond(174 yards) proved why he is one of the top backs in the shore, as he tore through the Wave repeatedly. Notre Dame bound Bennett Jackson hit a “rocket” screen for 67 yards and a touch, after he had a 91 screen pass called back. Jackson also kicked field goals of 35 and 37 yards. Next up, Raritan gets a rematch with Matawan, who defeated them 30-7 on Sept 25th. Raritan has 1 title in the trophy case, 2004 when they won CJ 2.
In a driving rain storm on Friday night, the Raiders of TR East used Nico Steriti not once, nor twice, but 45 times for 206 yards and 3 TDs. Nico was my pre-season player of the year, and he certainly has made me look good, as he scored his 26th, 27th and 28th TD of the year. Sr. QB Charlie Diskin threw a 23 yard TD to Anthony Chiacchio, to put the game away in the 4th quarter. With winds howling at 40-50 miles per hour and the rain driving sideways into the faces of the Raiders, Diskin hit for 3 of 4 passes in key situations of the game to aid the running of Steriti. #2 seed, Egg Harbor(9-0), is next for the #3 seed Raiders, as they try to win their first championship in the 30 year history of East. If Nico has anything to say about that, the trophy may very well be sitting in the East showcase come December.
The Bishops of Asbury Park may have found a new way to get the ball to power runner George Stephens. As Stephens is closing in on 1000 rushing yards, it was his pass catching ability( 120 yards) on Sat afternoon that led them to a 22-6 win over Shore Reg. Stephens accounted for all 3 TDs vs. Shore, 2 on the ground and 1 in the air. The win was the second time Asbury has beaten Shore(13-10 on opening day) and put them one step closer to their 3rd consecutive CJ 1 championship. Quite a feat for a program that struggled to a 1-9 record 4 years ago. Next up is David Brearley, at home, on Sat. afternoon.
Matawan, the top seed in CJ 2, easily beat New Brunswick on Sat. night 37-13. The Zebra’s had come into this one a hot team and Matawan jumped all over them and never let up. QB Jared Allison ran for 2 TDs and threw 2 TDs to lead the Huskies to the easy victory. Matawan is peaking at the right time, but will have to continue to play well, as Raritan will test them this week. The Huskies took no prisoners(30-7) the first time around, and revenge is on the minds of the Rockets. Matawan is looking for their first title since 1992.
Rumson remains unbeaten with a shutout win over A.L. Johnson 23-0. Always reliable John Riley, ran for 117 yards and a TD and the Bulldog defense held A.L. Johnson to 3 first downs and 50 total yards. The Rumson “D” was so dominate, that Johnson did not have a first down in the 2nd half. They recorded 4 sacks, had 2 turnovers and blocked a punt. Now you see why this team is undefeated! It doesn’t get any easier for them, as 11 time State Champions, Manasquan comes to town on Friday night. Rumson has never won a State title. The Shore Sports Network will broadcast that one on 1160 WOBM AM and Fox Sports 1310 am as well as 105.7 The Hawk.
Lacey, although scored upon, got it going big in the 2nd half, and cruised to a 33-14 win over Pemberton. Jarrod Molzon(213 yards) filling in for Jake Dabal(167 yards) had himself a huge 2nd half, after Dabal left with a pulled muscle in his side. These 2 RBs are only juniors as is QB Craig Cicardo, so the Lions are set for next year, but they aren’t thinking about next year just yet. They have their eyes on the prize this year and are playing very well at the right time. The Lions travel to Timber Creek this week for the semi-finals.
Neptune put 51 on the board vs. Lawrence, as RBs Ike Calderone(118 yards) and Charlie Davis(111 yards) led the Flier attack. Neptune led 37-7 at the half and cruised in the 2nd half and gets a rematch with a team they haven’t beaten since 1998, Middletown South. That streak includes a 16-0 win this year. Neptune last won the state title in 1986.
Playing without their starting QB C.J. Davis, due to disciplinary reasons, Manasquan defense came up big in a 14-7 victory over Keyport on Sunday. Soph QB Tyler Saito filled in admirably for Davis as he threw for 126 yards and had a rushing TD for the Blue Warriors. Manasquan will look for their shore leading 12th championship as they continue the run in CJ 2, when they travel to Rumson on Friday night.
Middletown South, the #1 seed in CJ 3, demolished West Windsor North by a 43-6 score. Kyle Bunge ran for 141 yards and 3 TDs to lead the Eagles to the easy victory. The Eagles have not won the whole thing since 2006, losing to Freehold Boro in last year’s final.
Howell Twp. the #2 seed in CJ 4 playing on Monday night due to field conditions, which didn’t look too bad to me, beat an undermanned Montgomery team 41-18. Jimmy Ryan, the shore’s best QB, threw for 5 TD passes in only 3 quarters of action, as the Rebels parlayed turnovers and field position, into points and more points. Howell continues next Sat. night, at 6pm, against Brick Memorial, a team it beat 37-27 earlier in the year.
Ocean, last won a State title in 2005 under Sal Spampanato, looks to win one with Coach Don Klein, in CJ 3. The shutout victory over Steinert(35-0) gets them to the semi’s against a good Monroe team on the road. Brandon Robinson, Greg Moore and Christian Bailoni, R.J. D’Apolito and Kevin Rodgers lead the “Big Red” in their quest.
Losing last weekend were Toms River North, who put up a game effort vs. Williamstown, who won their first ever state tournament game, 21-13, and Middletown North, who lost to #1 seed Sayreville in CJ 4 by a 21-0 score.
Top Ten-Week 10(Nov. 17th)
1-Middletown South(9-0) Impressive as ever in 1st round. Get a rematch with Neptune(16-0-first time around) who have not beaten them since 1998, enough said!
2-Toms River East(9-0) Got the job done vs. Wash Twp. in horrendous weather on Friday night. Nico Steriti(45 carries for 206 yds. and 3 TDs) proved to everyone he is a candidate for “Player of the Year”.
3-Howell(8-1) finally played their 1st round game after 2 postponements(why the second one on Sunday is a mystery??). Their reward, a rematch with Playoff savvy defending CJ Group 4 champions, Brick Memorial, a 21-17 winner over previously unbeaten, 9-0, Hun. Cen.
4-Matawan(9-1) The Huskies have made a statement that this could be their year back to the championship, which has eluded them, since 1992. They get Raritan, who they have defeated already 30-7, earlier this year.
5-Rumson(9-0) Anyone unbeaten at this point deserves a top 5 spot. The “Dawgs” have answered every caller and now host Manasquan who have won 11 championships in their storied history. This is the game of the week!
6-Toms River North(7-2) The Mariners suffered their 2nd loss of the year vs. Williamstown on Sat. night(21-13). I witnessed the problem that has plagued North throughout the year; a failure to get the ball into the end zone. Drew Kollman was the best player on the field, but he was not enough as the Mariners now set their sights on cross-town rival TR East on Friday Nov. 27 at 7pm at East.
7-Manasquan(-8-1) In a game played on Sunday, the Warriors playing with a back-up at QB, beat Keyport 14-7. This 1st round win gets them a trip to unbeaten Rumson, on Friday night, in the game of the week in the shore.
8-Raritan(7-2) Because of the rain this weekend, I was also able to see this postponed game vs. Long Branch. They were the better team on the field Sat afternoon, as they won 28-7. A rematch with Matawan awaits the Rockets, which will be played Sat. night at 6PM.
9-Lacey(7-2) The Lions scoreless string was snapped, but they took care of Pemberton 33-14 on Sat. afternoon. They now travel to Timber Creek for a semi-final contest.
10-Asbury Park(8-1) The Bishops are more than capable of getting their 3rd straight CJ Group 1 championship this year. Up next is Brearley at home Sat. afternoon at noon.
Just outside looking in:
Ocean(7-2)- Still alive in tough CJ 3. Must visit tough, Monroe HS, this Friday night at 7PM.
Neptune(7-2) they better be ready, as Middletown South awaits a visit on Friday night.
Brick Memorial(5-4) The Mustangs know how to win in the playoffs. Their tough Group 4 schedule has helped them out.
Long Branch(6-3)- I’ll keep them in the almost top ten. One game remains, and that should be a “W” on Turkey day vs. Red Bank.
We received many complimentary comments on our Thursday night interview with Ron Signorino Sr. In case you would like to hear it again, or may have missed it the first time, check it out on line on the audio page at shoresportsnetwork.com, where every Thursday football shows can be heard.
This week at Boston’s we will have on site, none other than the legendary Warren Wolf. Also on the phone line will be former RBC player and now Temple University Head Coach, Al Golden. This is sure to be a great 2 hours of football talk. We will breakdown the 1st round of the State games and look to the semi’s this weekend. That’s Thursday night at 6-8PM at Boston’s Sports bar and Restaurant on the corner of Fischer and Hooper Ave in Toms River.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Weekend of 11/5 + 11/6, 2009
Scanning the High School Football Scene with Ed Sarluca:
Let the playoffs begin.
No fewer than 18 schools will begin their quest to become state champions. The shore is well represented with 3 programs earning top seeds; Middletown South(CJ3), Asbury Park(CJ1) and Matawan(CJ2). Mid. South’s road to the finals may include #4 seed, Neptune, in round 2. Ocean(#3) is in the bottom bracket in this group, and has lost 2 of their last 3 going in. Asbury draws Shore Reg. in a rematch of a week 1 game won by AP, 13-10. The very tough South Jersey Group 4 will have 2 shore powers in TR East(#3) and TR North(#5). The good thing about their seeds is that, if they win, East and North will not meet until the finals.
The rampaging Lacey Lions, winners of 6 in a row, with 5 shutouts, received a #3 seed and have an excellent chance of getting to the finals. Hammonton is the #1 seed here. Brick Memorial, the defending CJ4 champ, won a big game on Friday night(37-34 vs. East Brunswick), to qualify as a #6 seed, and will have to win on the road, if they are to get their 3rd championship. To me, Howell(#2) is the team to beat in that section and with wins by them and BM, they would meet in the semi’s. Middletown North(#8) will also compete in this Group. Manasquan(#3), draws a shore opponent in Keyport. This will not be easy for the defending CJ2 champs, as they would probably get Rumson in round 2 if they escape Keyport.
This Group also has Matawan(#1), Raritan(#5), Long Branch(#4) and Rumson(#2) in it. Bet the house, that a shore school will win this section. RBC(#8) will get the #1 team in the state(Don Bosco), in the 1st round of Non-Public 4.
If I had to make some picks here in the 1st round, I would say there are 6 possible winners out there to take home the trophy on the weekend of Dec.4,5,6. More than likely, 3 or 4 will be celebrating. Let’s see how week 1 plays out, and next week I’ll tell you who will survive the 3 rounds.
A quick review of week 9:
The undefeated! Middletown South(8-0) and Rumson(8-0) had byes and were able to rest up for the States. TR East(8-0) easily defeated Old Bridge by a 41-21 score, as Nico Steriti continues to have a huge year, with 4 more TDs. By the way, the Raiders lead the shore in points scored with 283, that’s 35 points per game. Enough said!
Manasquan was knocked from the unbeaten ranks by Long Branch by a 21-14 score. Unfortunately, the story of this game was not who played well, but who did not play for the Blue Warriors. Manasquan sat 8 key players, due to breaking of team rules. Some of those who did not play were; C.J. Davis(starting QB), Neal Sterling(Receiver and DB), Dan Sullivan(DE), Ryan Dullea(Center), Kevin Callahan(Receiver/DB).
I am not taking anything away from Long Branch’s victory, but obviously these players could have made a difference. I credit head coach Pete Cahill for the fortitude to make this tough decision. All are expected to play this week. Long Branch also had to deal with problems of their own. QB Miles Schuler missed most of the week of practice, as he attended the funeral of his grandmom in California. Also Billy George, did not practice all week with a badly bruised bone in his knee. Both players played Friday night and Schuler was the difference, as he ran for 195 yards, including a 84 yard TD run, and passed for 116 yards including a TD of 55 yards to Ezra Kelly.
Head Coach Pete Cahill, said it best; “Miles is a legitimate Division 1 kid. He’s the second fastest kid in New Jersey”.
1 loss teams!
TR North had to sweat a little vs. Jackson, but a 4th quarter rally earned them a 17-7 victory. North’s defense, co-ordinater by Dave Oizerowitz, continues to play lights out. They have given up only 21 points all year, and as the old saying goes, DEFENSE WINS CHAMPIONSHIPS. It won’t be easy for the Mariners in SJ4, with the likes of Cherokee(possible 2nd round opponent) and cross town rival TR East, but the Mariners have been there before and know what it takes to win the whole thing.
By the way, don’t forget, the Raiders and Mariners have a date on Thanksgiving. Could they play 2 weeks in a row? Howell had an easy tune-up with Southern(37-19), as Jimmy Ryan threw for 387 yards and 4TDs. With the summer weather we are experiencing, the Rebels just may go a long way in CJ 4. Matawan ran for 399 yards as they rolled over Bishop Ahr 52-29. They got them the #1 seed in CJ 2. The Huskies are hot at the right time of the year. Manasquan and Asbury Park are the other 1 loss teams and they were mentioned up top.
How about Mon Don’s game! They put 73 points on the board against Metuchen, who by the way scored 45 on their own. QB Kevin Carter had himself a career day running for 210 yards and passing for 141 more yards. Carter ran for 5 TDs and threw for another. All in all the 2 squads combined for 1,101 yards of offense with 713 in the first half and 31 first downs. Yes, the defensive co-ordinators, missed the bus for this one! The scoreboard ground crew was last seen putting new lights in the board, as some blew out after this one.
Let’s give Calvin Thompson and his Point Pleasant Boro Panthers some credit. They opened the season with 4 straight losses, included in that streak was a 7 point loss, a 3 point loss and another 7 point loss. Very easily they could have packed it in at that point. Now they stand at 3-5, with 2 winnable games left, they could finish at 5-5. That would be quite an accomplishment for the Panthers. Nice job keeping them together.
Top Ten-week of Nov. 9th.
1-Middletown South(8-0) #1 seed in CJ3. Looking for another championship to put in their trophy case.
2-TR East(8-0) #3 seed in SJ 4. The Raiders are looking for their 1st State championship in school history. This is a tough group, but I believe the Raiders are ready to take the next step.
3-Howell(7-1) #2 seed in CJ 4. Open against Montgomery who is 5-4 on the season.
4-TR North(7-1) Great defense, must be tough on the road in playoffs. #5 seed in SJ 4.
5-Matawan(7-1) Only loss to RBC. The Huskies are for real. #1 seed in CJ 1.
6-Rumson(8-0) They have answered all comers. Now they begin their second season. #2 seed in CJ 2.
7-Lacey(6-2) Hottest team in shore right now. 6 straight wins and 5 shutouts in a row. #3 seed in SJ 3.
8-Manasquan(7-1) Perfect season over with loss to Long Branch last week. Sometimes losses are good, we shall see.
9-Long Branch(6-2) I know they just beat the team up above, but they have 2 losses to Ocean and Matawan. They are battle tested, with most of their games close and that will aid them down the line.
10-Asbury Park(7-1) Looking for 3 in a row in CJ 1. They are top seed and that will get them 2 home games and maybe 3 depending on where they play for the championship.
Just missed: RBC(5-3), Ocean(6-2), Raritan(6-2), Keyport(6-2), Wall(6-2)and Neptune(6-2)
The Shore Sports Network will broadcast the Washington Twp. at TR East 1st round game Friday night at 7pm at the home of the Raiders. Also join us on Thursday night for 2 hours of high school football talk at Boston’s in Toms River. We are on from 6-8pm every Thursday, except Thanksgiving week. Coaches, players, reporters and MU Head Coach Kevin Callahan join us every week. If you can’t come down, tune us in on 1160am or 1310am or on line at shoresportsnetwork.com.
Let the playoffs begin.
No fewer than 18 schools will begin their quest to become state champions. The shore is well represented with 3 programs earning top seeds; Middletown South(CJ3), Asbury Park(CJ1) and Matawan(CJ2). Mid. South’s road to the finals may include #4 seed, Neptune, in round 2. Ocean(#3) is in the bottom bracket in this group, and has lost 2 of their last 3 going in. Asbury draws Shore Reg. in a rematch of a week 1 game won by AP, 13-10. The very tough South Jersey Group 4 will have 2 shore powers in TR East(#3) and TR North(#5). The good thing about their seeds is that, if they win, East and North will not meet until the finals.
The rampaging Lacey Lions, winners of 6 in a row, with 5 shutouts, received a #3 seed and have an excellent chance of getting to the finals. Hammonton is the #1 seed here. Brick Memorial, the defending CJ4 champ, won a big game on Friday night(37-34 vs. East Brunswick), to qualify as a #6 seed, and will have to win on the road, if they are to get their 3rd championship. To me, Howell(#2) is the team to beat in that section and with wins by them and BM, they would meet in the semi’s. Middletown North(#8) will also compete in this Group. Manasquan(#3), draws a shore opponent in Keyport. This will not be easy for the defending CJ2 champs, as they would probably get Rumson in round 2 if they escape Keyport.
This Group also has Matawan(#1), Raritan(#5), Long Branch(#4) and Rumson(#2) in it. Bet the house, that a shore school will win this section. RBC(#8) will get the #1 team in the state(Don Bosco), in the 1st round of Non-Public 4.
If I had to make some picks here in the 1st round, I would say there are 6 possible winners out there to take home the trophy on the weekend of Dec.4,5,6. More than likely, 3 or 4 will be celebrating. Let’s see how week 1 plays out, and next week I’ll tell you who will survive the 3 rounds.
A quick review of week 9:
The undefeated! Middletown South(8-0) and Rumson(8-0) had byes and were able to rest up for the States. TR East(8-0) easily defeated Old Bridge by a 41-21 score, as Nico Steriti continues to have a huge year, with 4 more TDs. By the way, the Raiders lead the shore in points scored with 283, that’s 35 points per game. Enough said!
Manasquan was knocked from the unbeaten ranks by Long Branch by a 21-14 score. Unfortunately, the story of this game was not who played well, but who did not play for the Blue Warriors. Manasquan sat 8 key players, due to breaking of team rules. Some of those who did not play were; C.J. Davis(starting QB), Neal Sterling(Receiver and DB), Dan Sullivan(DE), Ryan Dullea(Center), Kevin Callahan(Receiver/DB).
I am not taking anything away from Long Branch’s victory, but obviously these players could have made a difference. I credit head coach Pete Cahill for the fortitude to make this tough decision. All are expected to play this week. Long Branch also had to deal with problems of their own. QB Miles Schuler missed most of the week of practice, as he attended the funeral of his grandmom in California. Also Billy George, did not practice all week with a badly bruised bone in his knee. Both players played Friday night and Schuler was the difference, as he ran for 195 yards, including a 84 yard TD run, and passed for 116 yards including a TD of 55 yards to Ezra Kelly.
Head Coach Pete Cahill, said it best; “Miles is a legitimate Division 1 kid. He’s the second fastest kid in New Jersey”.
1 loss teams!
TR North had to sweat a little vs. Jackson, but a 4th quarter rally earned them a 17-7 victory. North’s defense, co-ordinater by Dave Oizerowitz, continues to play lights out. They have given up only 21 points all year, and as the old saying goes, DEFENSE WINS CHAMPIONSHIPS. It won’t be easy for the Mariners in SJ4, with the likes of Cherokee(possible 2nd round opponent) and cross town rival TR East, but the Mariners have been there before and know what it takes to win the whole thing.
By the way, don’t forget, the Raiders and Mariners have a date on Thanksgiving. Could they play 2 weeks in a row? Howell had an easy tune-up with Southern(37-19), as Jimmy Ryan threw for 387 yards and 4TDs. With the summer weather we are experiencing, the Rebels just may go a long way in CJ 4. Matawan ran for 399 yards as they rolled over Bishop Ahr 52-29. They got them the #1 seed in CJ 2. The Huskies are hot at the right time of the year. Manasquan and Asbury Park are the other 1 loss teams and they were mentioned up top.
How about Mon Don’s game! They put 73 points on the board against Metuchen, who by the way scored 45 on their own. QB Kevin Carter had himself a career day running for 210 yards and passing for 141 more yards. Carter ran for 5 TDs and threw for another. All in all the 2 squads combined for 1,101 yards of offense with 713 in the first half and 31 first downs. Yes, the defensive co-ordinators, missed the bus for this one! The scoreboard ground crew was last seen putting new lights in the board, as some blew out after this one.
Let’s give Calvin Thompson and his Point Pleasant Boro Panthers some credit. They opened the season with 4 straight losses, included in that streak was a 7 point loss, a 3 point loss and another 7 point loss. Very easily they could have packed it in at that point. Now they stand at 3-5, with 2 winnable games left, they could finish at 5-5. That would be quite an accomplishment for the Panthers. Nice job keeping them together.
Top Ten-week of Nov. 9th.
1-Middletown South(8-0) #1 seed in CJ3. Looking for another championship to put in their trophy case.
2-TR East(8-0) #3 seed in SJ 4. The Raiders are looking for their 1st State championship in school history. This is a tough group, but I believe the Raiders are ready to take the next step.
3-Howell(7-1) #2 seed in CJ 4. Open against Montgomery who is 5-4 on the season.
4-TR North(7-1) Great defense, must be tough on the road in playoffs. #5 seed in SJ 4.
5-Matawan(7-1) Only loss to RBC. The Huskies are for real. #1 seed in CJ 1.
6-Rumson(8-0) They have answered all comers. Now they begin their second season. #2 seed in CJ 2.
7-Lacey(6-2) Hottest team in shore right now. 6 straight wins and 5 shutouts in a row. #3 seed in SJ 3.
8-Manasquan(7-1) Perfect season over with loss to Long Branch last week. Sometimes losses are good, we shall see.
9-Long Branch(6-2) I know they just beat the team up above, but they have 2 losses to Ocean and Matawan. They are battle tested, with most of their games close and that will aid them down the line.
10-Asbury Park(7-1) Looking for 3 in a row in CJ 1. They are top seed and that will get them 2 home games and maybe 3 depending on where they play for the championship.
Just missed: RBC(5-3), Ocean(6-2), Raritan(6-2), Keyport(6-2), Wall(6-2)and Neptune(6-2)
The Shore Sports Network will broadcast the Washington Twp. at TR East 1st round game Friday night at 7pm at the home of the Raiders. Also join us on Thursday night for 2 hours of high school football talk at Boston’s in Toms River. We are on from 6-8pm every Thursday, except Thanksgiving week. Coaches, players, reporters and MU Head Coach Kevin Callahan join us every week. If you can’t come down, tune us in on 1160am or 1310am or on line at shoresportsnetwork.com.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Weekend of 10/23 + 10/24
Scanning the High School Football scene with Ed Sarluca:
With just 2 weeks left before the playoff cut-off date(Nov 7th), it’s time to look at who is in, and who must win, in the next 2 weeks, to have that chance to put a state championship trophy in the showcase. If I had to put a number out there this week, it would be 18 schools in and 5 more with a chance to make it. Let’s look closely at the groups.
South Jersey Group 4:
TR East(7-0) is in and looks like a 1,2 or 3 seed. The picture will clear after next week, but with a 1 or 2 seed for the Raiders, that would mean home games, and that’s important in this group, with the likes of Cherokee, Egg Harbor, Washington Twp., Williamstown all having great years. TR North(5-1) will make it and have to fight on the road this year. They have a big one with Piscataway(4-3) this week and that will determine their seed. Southern, who made their great run last year, only to lose in the finals, doesn’t look like they will get another chance this year, and they will be on the outside looking in.
South Jersey Group 3:
Lacey will make it, and could get a home game, if they care of business against Middletown North and Freehold Boro in the next 2 weeks. Those are both tough games, so if they are to get a top 4 seed, they would have earned it. Believe it or not, Manchester(3-3) with their upset over RBC, have given themselves a chance at the playoffs. With Monmouth Reg. and Jax Liberty left, they must win 1 of them and qualify at 4-4, and then see where they fall. You must first qualify and then see what happens.
South Jersey Group 2:
Barnegat(2-4) is still is alive, but barely. Obviously, they must win their last 2 against Point Boro and Lakewood(both winnable games) to qualify, and then see if they can get into the top 8. A shot for the better than 2-4 Bengals.
Central Jersey Group 4:
Howell(7-0), will be a 1,2 or 3 seed with Hunterton Central and Sayreville being the challengers. Howell will travel to Sayreville this week in a key cross-over game to help determine top seed. Brick Memorial(3-4) is not out of it yet. They must beat East Brunswick(5-2) on November 6th to qualify and then get some help to try and defend their championship, which they won last year. Middletown North(4-2) will make it, if they win 1 of their 2 remaining games vs. Lacey(4-2) and South Brunswick(2-4).
Central Jersey Group 3:
No less than 4 schools can qualify here. Mid South, Ocean, Freehold Boro, and Neptune look good, with Wall, Brick and Jax Liberty still with a fighting chance. Too many good games left, to make a call here.
Central Jersey Group 2:
This will be Shore Wars revisited as Rumson, Raritan, Keyport, Long Branch, Manasquan and Matawan all look like they should get in. Seeds will be a key factor here, with match-ups going a long way in determining a winner.
Central Jersey Group 1:
Asbury Park(5-1) will have a chance at making it 3 in a row. Shore(3-4), which has been up and down this year, can still make it, but must beat Point Beach to get to 4-4. Keansburg(3-3) must win 1 of 2(Keyport and Dunellen) to qualify and then get help. Dunellen, looks like the best shot for them.
Non-Pub. Group 4:
RBC(4-3) will make it despite the upset loss to Manchester last week. Tough group, as always, with the likes of Don Bosco, Bergen Catholic, St. Peter’s, Camden Catholic, Seton Hall and Paul VI.
That’s a quick look at what the playoff picture looks like, at this point, with 2 weeks to go. After next week’s games we may get a better look at who’s in and who’s out. Now let’s look at last week’s key games.
In one of 3 Sunday games, the Huskies of Matawan(5-1) upset previously unbeaten Ocean(5-1), 24-7. Early in the 1st quarter, Matawan used a flea-flicker, which led to a 47 yard TD, and never looked back as they moved to 5-1 on the year. Playmaker MacArthur Underwood, scored twice, on runs of 65, 2 yards and added a 26 yard interception return for a TD to lead Matawan. No time to relax, as Matawan travels to Long Branch on Sat. for an important Liberty match-up.
In another Sunday contest, Middletown South’s(7-0) outstanding defense held Neptune(4-2) to 66 total yards as they shutout the Fliers 16-0. This suffocating defense is the best in the shore and the Eagles, led by Sean Campbell, showed everyone that they are the favorite in CJ Group 3. Sunday they clinched at least a tie in the Federal Division and may very well see Neptune again in the States.
Wall(4-2)10-7 over Jax Liberty(3-3). Tim Mullooly’s 18 yard field goal with 9 min. left, gave the Crimson Knights the “W”. Maurice Washington ran for 194 yards and Fred Sprengel caught his 4th TD pass of the year, as the Knight’s kept their playoff hopes alive. Not only did Mullooly and Washington have great games, but they were crowned co-homecoming kings at half-time ceremonies. A pretty good night for these two players.
TR East(7-0) 24-6 over Mid North(4-2). How much more does Nico Steriti have to do to solidify his “player of the year” award? All the senior did Friday night was run for 176 yards and 2 TDs, catch 4 passes for 74 yards and a TD and play an outstanding game on defense. The pass came at the 7 second mark of the 1st half on a double reverse pass thrown by Joey Clarizio. Steriti leads the shore in rushing(1039 yards) and has scored 20 TDs in his 7 games so far in 2009. I have said it all season long; this club is on a mission to win a State Championship, and nothing has changed my mind!
Howell(6-0) 37-27 over Brick Memorial(3-4). The Rebels “ran” over the Stangs in a game in which they only threw for 204 yards. I say that because they average close to 300 yards in the air. With this added run game success, they will be tough to beat in the playoffs. Up next is a trip to CJ 4 power, Sayreville.
Top Ten:
1-Middletown South(7-0) Did nothing to hurt their #1 ranking with 16-0 victory over Neptune. Great defense and defense wins championships!
2-Howell(6-0) Beat Brick Mem. 37-27 and proved they are best team in American Division. Great offense and offense excites fans.
3-TR East(7-0) On a mission to win a State Championship. Clinched outright title in Constitution Division.
4-Manasquan(6-0) Took care of SJ V on Sunday. Steady, goes about its business each week. Solid “O” and solid “D”.
5-TR North(5-1) Only loss was #2 Howell. Lives on its great defense.
6-Rumson(7-0) Another week another win for “Dawgs”. Have answered all comers. Solid team.
7-Matawan(5-1) Big win over previously unbeaten Ocean. Great athletes.
8-Ocean(5-1) First loss of season for “Big Red” on Sunday against Matawan. Big playmakers held in check by Huskie defense.
9-Raritan(5-1) Another 5-1 team that the “General” has back on track after tough Matawan loss earlier in season.
10-Long Branch(5-1) Chance to make a move up rankings with Matawan and Manasquan coming up.
Beat of rest:
Lacey(4-2) Watch out for the Lions. 4 in a row for them.
Asbury Park(5-1) Lone loss to undefeated Rumson.
Keyport(5-1) Also lost to Rumson.
Neptune(4-2) Hanging by a thread.
Join us Thursday night at Boston’s in Toms River for the High School football show. 6-8 PM every Thursday. Coaches, players and much more. Game of week is RBC at Ocean on Friday night 7PM.
With just 2 weeks left before the playoff cut-off date(Nov 7th), it’s time to look at who is in, and who must win, in the next 2 weeks, to have that chance to put a state championship trophy in the showcase. If I had to put a number out there this week, it would be 18 schools in and 5 more with a chance to make it. Let’s look closely at the groups.
South Jersey Group 4:
TR East(7-0) is in and looks like a 1,2 or 3 seed. The picture will clear after next week, but with a 1 or 2 seed for the Raiders, that would mean home games, and that’s important in this group, with the likes of Cherokee, Egg Harbor, Washington Twp., Williamstown all having great years. TR North(5-1) will make it and have to fight on the road this year. They have a big one with Piscataway(4-3) this week and that will determine their seed. Southern, who made their great run last year, only to lose in the finals, doesn’t look like they will get another chance this year, and they will be on the outside looking in.
South Jersey Group 3:
Lacey will make it, and could get a home game, if they care of business against Middletown North and Freehold Boro in the next 2 weeks. Those are both tough games, so if they are to get a top 4 seed, they would have earned it. Believe it or not, Manchester(3-3) with their upset over RBC, have given themselves a chance at the playoffs. With Monmouth Reg. and Jax Liberty left, they must win 1 of them and qualify at 4-4, and then see where they fall. You must first qualify and then see what happens.
South Jersey Group 2:
Barnegat(2-4) is still is alive, but barely. Obviously, they must win their last 2 against Point Boro and Lakewood(both winnable games) to qualify, and then see if they can get into the top 8. A shot for the better than 2-4 Bengals.
Central Jersey Group 4:
Howell(7-0), will be a 1,2 or 3 seed with Hunterton Central and Sayreville being the challengers. Howell will travel to Sayreville this week in a key cross-over game to help determine top seed. Brick Memorial(3-4) is not out of it yet. They must beat East Brunswick(5-2) on November 6th to qualify and then get some help to try and defend their championship, which they won last year. Middletown North(4-2) will make it, if they win 1 of their 2 remaining games vs. Lacey(4-2) and South Brunswick(2-4).
Central Jersey Group 3:
No less than 4 schools can qualify here. Mid South, Ocean, Freehold Boro, and Neptune look good, with Wall, Brick and Jax Liberty still with a fighting chance. Too many good games left, to make a call here.
Central Jersey Group 2:
This will be Shore Wars revisited as Rumson, Raritan, Keyport, Long Branch, Manasquan and Matawan all look like they should get in. Seeds will be a key factor here, with match-ups going a long way in determining a winner.
Central Jersey Group 1:
Asbury Park(5-1) will have a chance at making it 3 in a row. Shore(3-4), which has been up and down this year, can still make it, but must beat Point Beach to get to 4-4. Keansburg(3-3) must win 1 of 2(Keyport and Dunellen) to qualify and then get help. Dunellen, looks like the best shot for them.
Non-Pub. Group 4:
RBC(4-3) will make it despite the upset loss to Manchester last week. Tough group, as always, with the likes of Don Bosco, Bergen Catholic, St. Peter’s, Camden Catholic, Seton Hall and Paul VI.
That’s a quick look at what the playoff picture looks like, at this point, with 2 weeks to go. After next week’s games we may get a better look at who’s in and who’s out. Now let’s look at last week’s key games.
In one of 3 Sunday games, the Huskies of Matawan(5-1) upset previously unbeaten Ocean(5-1), 24-7. Early in the 1st quarter, Matawan used a flea-flicker, which led to a 47 yard TD, and never looked back as they moved to 5-1 on the year. Playmaker MacArthur Underwood, scored twice, on runs of 65, 2 yards and added a 26 yard interception return for a TD to lead Matawan. No time to relax, as Matawan travels to Long Branch on Sat. for an important Liberty match-up.
In another Sunday contest, Middletown South’s(7-0) outstanding defense held Neptune(4-2) to 66 total yards as they shutout the Fliers 16-0. This suffocating defense is the best in the shore and the Eagles, led by Sean Campbell, showed everyone that they are the favorite in CJ Group 3. Sunday they clinched at least a tie in the Federal Division and may very well see Neptune again in the States.
Wall(4-2)10-7 over Jax Liberty(3-3). Tim Mullooly’s 18 yard field goal with 9 min. left, gave the Crimson Knights the “W”. Maurice Washington ran for 194 yards and Fred Sprengel caught his 4th TD pass of the year, as the Knight’s kept their playoff hopes alive. Not only did Mullooly and Washington have great games, but they were crowned co-homecoming kings at half-time ceremonies. A pretty good night for these two players.
TR East(7-0) 24-6 over Mid North(4-2). How much more does Nico Steriti have to do to solidify his “player of the year” award? All the senior did Friday night was run for 176 yards and 2 TDs, catch 4 passes for 74 yards and a TD and play an outstanding game on defense. The pass came at the 7 second mark of the 1st half on a double reverse pass thrown by Joey Clarizio. Steriti leads the shore in rushing(1039 yards) and has scored 20 TDs in his 7 games so far in 2009. I have said it all season long; this club is on a mission to win a State Championship, and nothing has changed my mind!
Howell(6-0) 37-27 over Brick Memorial(3-4). The Rebels “ran” over the Stangs in a game in which they only threw for 204 yards. I say that because they average close to 300 yards in the air. With this added run game success, they will be tough to beat in the playoffs. Up next is a trip to CJ 4 power, Sayreville.
Top Ten:
1-Middletown South(7-0) Did nothing to hurt their #1 ranking with 16-0 victory over Neptune. Great defense and defense wins championships!
2-Howell(6-0) Beat Brick Mem. 37-27 and proved they are best team in American Division. Great offense and offense excites fans.
3-TR East(7-0) On a mission to win a State Championship. Clinched outright title in Constitution Division.
4-Manasquan(6-0) Took care of SJ V on Sunday. Steady, goes about its business each week. Solid “O” and solid “D”.
5-TR North(5-1) Only loss was #2 Howell. Lives on its great defense.
6-Rumson(7-0) Another week another win for “Dawgs”. Have answered all comers. Solid team.
7-Matawan(5-1) Big win over previously unbeaten Ocean. Great athletes.
8-Ocean(5-1) First loss of season for “Big Red” on Sunday against Matawan. Big playmakers held in check by Huskie defense.
9-Raritan(5-1) Another 5-1 team that the “General” has back on track after tough Matawan loss earlier in season.
10-Long Branch(5-1) Chance to make a move up rankings with Matawan and Manasquan coming up.
Beat of rest:
Lacey(4-2) Watch out for the Lions. 4 in a row for them.
Asbury Park(5-1) Lone loss to undefeated Rumson.
Keyport(5-1) Also lost to Rumson.
Neptune(4-2) Hanging by a thread.
Join us Thursday night at Boston’s in Toms River for the High School football show. 6-8 PM every Thursday. Coaches, players and much more. Game of week is RBC at Ocean on Friday night 7PM.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Weekend of 10/16 + 10/17
Scanning the High School football scene with Ed Sarluca:
While week 6 certainly wasn’t a good all-around football weekend for “our” local teams; Giants get embarrassed 48-27, Jets lose 16-13 as Mark Sanchez throws 5 picks, Eagles lose a yawner 13-9 to lowly Oakland, and Rutgers loses on ESPN to Pitt 24-17, it wasn’t a total loss. I hope you had a chance to listen to Monmouth University’s impressive 42-20 victory over Sacred Heart Univ. on the shore sports network, as freshmen QB Kyle Frazier threw for 4 TDs and Dave Sinisi ran for 135 yards as Monmouth evened their record at 3-3. While the big boys might not have had their best weekend, numerous local high school teams are gearing up for what may be a big run at State Championships. Let’s look at some of the big games of week 6.
Let’s start with Oceans(5-0) big win over Long Branch(5-1). The “Big Red” ran for 319 yards, and survived a late Long Branch comeback, to win it 24-21. Little used junior RB Kevin Rodgers(158 yds. and 2 TDs) made an impressive impact as the “Spartans”, led by Sr. George Sofield, dominated the line of scrimmage and have set themselves up for what looks like a huge game this week vs. Matawan. Long Branch was led by QB Miles Schuler, who accounted for 251 of his teams 273 yards.
Rumson(6-0) and Keyport(4-1) played their hearts out, with Rumson winning in 2 overtime periods, 24-21. Kicker Tucker Smith’s 17 yard field goal won it for the “Bulldogs”, as his first attempt in the first OT was blocked. Fighting a slight groin injury, Smith kicked very little during the week leading up to Saturday’s effort, but the leading kicker in the shore was true, from a severe angle, and allowed the “Dawgs” to continue their dream season. Rumson has come out clean after games vs. Asbury Park, Shore, and Keyport. That’s not an easy stretch to get through. Now they must just beat winless Mater Dei and 1 win Point Beach, to enter the CJ Group 2 playoffs undefeated.
Manasquan(5-0), TR East(6-0), Middletown South(6-0) and Howell(5-0), all remained undefeated, along with Ocean and Rumson and look like sure fire playoff contenders.
Some notable performances in week 6 which deserves mention.
First and foremost was Junior QB Nick SanGiacomo of Barnegat(2-3). Nick, the strong arm QB, threw for 315 yards and 3 TDs in Barnegat’s come from behind 28-23 victory over S J Vianney(2-3). SanGiacomo threw for 225 of those yards in the second half when Barnegat completed their comeback win. Nick is going to be a highly recruited Div. 1 athlete next year, and the offers have begun already, as Tulane University has committed to him. The Bengals already have Senior TE Jarrett Darmstatter, who has been hurt, but is expected to return soon, being recruited by numerous Div 1 schools.
Mon Don’s(2-3) upset of Shore Reg.(2-4) could define the Griffin season. Their high powered offense has not been stopped all year; let’s see if they can move it against the rugged defense of Keyport, at home Friday night.
Manalapan(1-4) picked up their first win of season with an upset of Brick Memorial(3-3). This loss all but knocked the “Stangs” out of any American Division chances and severely hurt their chances of defending their CJ Group 4 championship, which they won last year. The “Mustangs” get Howell(5-0) this week in their homecoming game. We will broadcast this game this week from Brick Memorial.
RBC(4-2) won their 4th in a row. Watch out for the “Casey’s”.
Red Bank(2-4), under new Head Coach Nick Giglio, won for the second time and posted a shutout, 34-0 over JFK Iselin.
Lacey(3-2) has won 3 in a row and are rolling into the playoff picture in SJ Group 3.
Point Boro(1-5) won their first of the year with a 34-14 win over Holmdel(2-4)
TR North(4-1) had a tough time, but prevailed over Southern,14-0. North’s Drew Kollman threw his first TD pass of his career, off of a flanker option pass. Nice call by Mariner coaching staff, at a time in which they were struggling to score.
Jax Liberty(3-2) made school history with their 3rd win. This young 3rd year program, under Tim Osborn, has made huge strides this year and are looking for a winning season. It won’t be easy, but it is within their grasp.
Matawan(4-1), Raritan(4-1), Asbury Park(4-1) and Neptune(4-1) all won and have set up big games in the next few weeks.
Quotable Quotes:
“You have got to be successful by stopping Keyport on first down and putting them in second and long and third and long situations.”(Shane Fallon, Rumson Head Coach and Rumson QB in 1989, the last time Rumson started 6-0.)
“People look at us and saw what our record was. You can’t hide it. We actually had a good preseason and had high hopes. We thought we would have won some games by now.”(Kevin Cruz, Manalapan wide receiver, who caught 8 balls and 2 TD passes in their 33-22 win over Brick Mem.)
“We celebrated pretty good on the field when their kick missed, it was a pretty good win for us.”( Matt Filosa-Jackson Liberty RB who ran for 151 yards and 3 TDs in Liberty’s 36-35 OT win over Central)
“Neal is a force, an impact player on both sides of the ball. Neal is a weapon. Our makeup is usually to run the football, but we are going to try to get Neal the ball a few times every game.”(Head Coach Pete Cahill on his WR/DB Neal Sterling.)
“Craig is much more mature. He is always confident. His physicality has helped him become one heck of a runner. Craig becoming a runner was part of our plan. He’s starting to be a rusher, but he’s still a capable passer. (Head Coach Lou Vircillo on Junior QB Craig Cicardo.)
Top Ten-Week of Oct 19th:
1-Middletown South(6-0) Took care of Wall 26-9. Upcoming big one at Neptune on Saturday afternoon.
2-Howell(5-0) Coming off bye week, can go a long way to division title with a “W” this week at Brick Memorial.
3-TR East(6-0) Friday for all the mables in Constitution Division at home vs. Middletown North.
4-Ocean(5-0) Impressive in its 24-21 win over Long Branch. Doesn’t get any easier with trip to Matawan on Sat. night.
5-Manasquan(5-0) All they do is win. Raritan and Long Branch are waiting for “Big Blue” in 2 weeks.
6-TR North(4-1) Sloppy, but effiencent win vs. Southern Reg-14-0. Defense is one of best in shore.
7- Rumson(6-0) Great win vs. Keyport. They completed a 3 game stretch vs. Asbury Park, Shore and Keyport. That’s impressive.
8-Neptune(4-1) Put up 47 points this week. Points will be a lot tougher to come by this week when they entertain Mid South on Sat. afternoon.
9-Long Branch(5-1) Great effort in losing against Ocean. Must recover with bye week and then Matawan and Manasquan in last 2 weeks before playoffs.
10-Matawan(4-1) This sets up a top ten game with Ocean this week. Which Matawan team shows up?
Just missed:
Keyport(4-1) Tough loss to Rumson, proved they can play with top teams.
Raritan(4-1) Jessie Raymond and Bennett Jackson have had great seasons.
RBC(4-2) 4 straight for them
Asbury Park(4-1) they have recovered from loss to Rumson.
Middletown North(4-1) Surprise team will get to prove they belong in elite 10 as they play TR East on Friday night.
Join us Thursday night at Boston’s in TR for Thursday night football show. Joining us will be Nick SanGiacomo, Barnegat’s outstanding QB, among other guests. 6-8 Thursday on 1160am,1310am or shoresportsnetwork.com on the net.
While week 6 certainly wasn’t a good all-around football weekend for “our” local teams; Giants get embarrassed 48-27, Jets lose 16-13 as Mark Sanchez throws 5 picks, Eagles lose a yawner 13-9 to lowly Oakland, and Rutgers loses on ESPN to Pitt 24-17, it wasn’t a total loss. I hope you had a chance to listen to Monmouth University’s impressive 42-20 victory over Sacred Heart Univ. on the shore sports network, as freshmen QB Kyle Frazier threw for 4 TDs and Dave Sinisi ran for 135 yards as Monmouth evened their record at 3-3. While the big boys might not have had their best weekend, numerous local high school teams are gearing up for what may be a big run at State Championships. Let’s look at some of the big games of week 6.
Let’s start with Oceans(5-0) big win over Long Branch(5-1). The “Big Red” ran for 319 yards, and survived a late Long Branch comeback, to win it 24-21. Little used junior RB Kevin Rodgers(158 yds. and 2 TDs) made an impressive impact as the “Spartans”, led by Sr. George Sofield, dominated the line of scrimmage and have set themselves up for what looks like a huge game this week vs. Matawan. Long Branch was led by QB Miles Schuler, who accounted for 251 of his teams 273 yards.
Rumson(6-0) and Keyport(4-1) played their hearts out, with Rumson winning in 2 overtime periods, 24-21. Kicker Tucker Smith’s 17 yard field goal won it for the “Bulldogs”, as his first attempt in the first OT was blocked. Fighting a slight groin injury, Smith kicked very little during the week leading up to Saturday’s effort, but the leading kicker in the shore was true, from a severe angle, and allowed the “Dawgs” to continue their dream season. Rumson has come out clean after games vs. Asbury Park, Shore, and Keyport. That’s not an easy stretch to get through. Now they must just beat winless Mater Dei and 1 win Point Beach, to enter the CJ Group 2 playoffs undefeated.
Manasquan(5-0), TR East(6-0), Middletown South(6-0) and Howell(5-0), all remained undefeated, along with Ocean and Rumson and look like sure fire playoff contenders.
Some notable performances in week 6 which deserves mention.
First and foremost was Junior QB Nick SanGiacomo of Barnegat(2-3). Nick, the strong arm QB, threw for 315 yards and 3 TDs in Barnegat’s come from behind 28-23 victory over S J Vianney(2-3). SanGiacomo threw for 225 of those yards in the second half when Barnegat completed their comeback win. Nick is going to be a highly recruited Div. 1 athlete next year, and the offers have begun already, as Tulane University has committed to him. The Bengals already have Senior TE Jarrett Darmstatter, who has been hurt, but is expected to return soon, being recruited by numerous Div 1 schools.
Mon Don’s(2-3) upset of Shore Reg.(2-4) could define the Griffin season. Their high powered offense has not been stopped all year; let’s see if they can move it against the rugged defense of Keyport, at home Friday night.
Manalapan(1-4) picked up their first win of season with an upset of Brick Memorial(3-3). This loss all but knocked the “Stangs” out of any American Division chances and severely hurt their chances of defending their CJ Group 4 championship, which they won last year. The “Mustangs” get Howell(5-0) this week in their homecoming game. We will broadcast this game this week from Brick Memorial.
RBC(4-2) won their 4th in a row. Watch out for the “Casey’s”.
Red Bank(2-4), under new Head Coach Nick Giglio, won for the second time and posted a shutout, 34-0 over JFK Iselin.
Lacey(3-2) has won 3 in a row and are rolling into the playoff picture in SJ Group 3.
Point Boro(1-5) won their first of the year with a 34-14 win over Holmdel(2-4)
TR North(4-1) had a tough time, but prevailed over Southern,14-0. North’s Drew Kollman threw his first TD pass of his career, off of a flanker option pass. Nice call by Mariner coaching staff, at a time in which they were struggling to score.
Jax Liberty(3-2) made school history with their 3rd win. This young 3rd year program, under Tim Osborn, has made huge strides this year and are looking for a winning season. It won’t be easy, but it is within their grasp.
Matawan(4-1), Raritan(4-1), Asbury Park(4-1) and Neptune(4-1) all won and have set up big games in the next few weeks.
Quotable Quotes:
“You have got to be successful by stopping Keyport on first down and putting them in second and long and third and long situations.”(Shane Fallon, Rumson Head Coach and Rumson QB in 1989, the last time Rumson started 6-0.)
“People look at us and saw what our record was. You can’t hide it. We actually had a good preseason and had high hopes. We thought we would have won some games by now.”(Kevin Cruz, Manalapan wide receiver, who caught 8 balls and 2 TD passes in their 33-22 win over Brick Mem.)
“We celebrated pretty good on the field when their kick missed, it was a pretty good win for us.”( Matt Filosa-Jackson Liberty RB who ran for 151 yards and 3 TDs in Liberty’s 36-35 OT win over Central)
“Neal is a force, an impact player on both sides of the ball. Neal is a weapon. Our makeup is usually to run the football, but we are going to try to get Neal the ball a few times every game.”(Head Coach Pete Cahill on his WR/DB Neal Sterling.)
“Craig is much more mature. He is always confident. His physicality has helped him become one heck of a runner. Craig becoming a runner was part of our plan. He’s starting to be a rusher, but he’s still a capable passer. (Head Coach Lou Vircillo on Junior QB Craig Cicardo.)
Top Ten-Week of Oct 19th:
1-Middletown South(6-0) Took care of Wall 26-9. Upcoming big one at Neptune on Saturday afternoon.
2-Howell(5-0) Coming off bye week, can go a long way to division title with a “W” this week at Brick Memorial.
3-TR East(6-0) Friday for all the mables in Constitution Division at home vs. Middletown North.
4-Ocean(5-0) Impressive in its 24-21 win over Long Branch. Doesn’t get any easier with trip to Matawan on Sat. night.
5-Manasquan(5-0) All they do is win. Raritan and Long Branch are waiting for “Big Blue” in 2 weeks.
6-TR North(4-1) Sloppy, but effiencent win vs. Southern Reg-14-0. Defense is one of best in shore.
7- Rumson(6-0) Great win vs. Keyport. They completed a 3 game stretch vs. Asbury Park, Shore and Keyport. That’s impressive.
8-Neptune(4-1) Put up 47 points this week. Points will be a lot tougher to come by this week when they entertain Mid South on Sat. afternoon.
9-Long Branch(5-1) Great effort in losing against Ocean. Must recover with bye week and then Matawan and Manasquan in last 2 weeks before playoffs.
10-Matawan(4-1) This sets up a top ten game with Ocean this week. Which Matawan team shows up?
Just missed:
Keyport(4-1) Tough loss to Rumson, proved they can play with top teams.
Raritan(4-1) Jessie Raymond and Bennett Jackson have had great seasons.
RBC(4-2) 4 straight for them
Asbury Park(4-1) they have recovered from loss to Rumson.
Middletown North(4-1) Surprise team will get to prove they belong in elite 10 as they play TR East on Friday night.
Join us Thursday night at Boston’s in TR for Thursday night football show. Joining us will be Nick SanGiacomo, Barnegat’s outstanding QB, among other guests. 6-8 Thursday on 1160am,1310am or shoresportsnetwork.com on the net.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Weekend Of 10/9 + 10/10
Week 5 has come and gone, and several teams have set themselves up for key contests in the coming weeks. Let’s break it down by divisions:
American-The winner looks like it will come from the camp of either Howell or TR North. North took care of Brick Memorial rather easily(34-7) and Howell put up 48 points in a game in which they threw for 437 yards, against Manalapan. If Howell beats Brick Mem., 2 weeks from now, they will win that division. If Memorial can pull off the upset it might create a 3 way tie among the 3 schools.
Constitution- TR East has a strangle hold on the title, as they demolished Marlboro 54-0. Nico and Mario Steriti continue to wreck havoc on the rest of the shore. If Mom continues to feed this team, there’s no telling how far they can go.
Federal- Looks like this one will come down to Oct. 24th when Mid South travels to Neptune with the trophy on line. Both must be careful not to get tripped up next week. Mid South has the toughest of games as they get Wall while Neptune gets winless Lakewood.
Liberty-Although Ocean is 4-0, they have played only 1 conf. game, a win against Manchester. They enter the meat-grinder for their next 3, as they travel to Long Branch and Matawan and then get RBC at home. That’s not an easy road to a championship, and if they win it they will have earned it. Of course those 3 other teams all have their eyes on the prize also. It’s too early to predict this one. Some great weeks are ahead in the Liberty Division.
National-This one will come down to a Halloween afternoon(Oct 31st) at Manasquan, when Raritan comes calling. Manasquan is still un-defeated(4-0), while Raritan’s only blemish is a non-con. loss to Matawan.
Patriot-This week-Rumson(5-0) and Keyport(4-0), for the championship, at the home of the Red Raiders. There is nothing like an afternoon game at Keyport with everything on the line. As the band and fans travel down Jackson St. to the field, the tension begins to build. Mike Ciccotelli, has made many trips down that road in his 32 years as the head man of the Raiders. Will this one be a championship walk? We shall see.
That summarizes the divisions as we head to week 6. While many schools are fighting for championships, there is also one eye on the State Playoffs. We are quickly approaching the cut-off date of November 7th(8 games). More to come, on that subject, next week. Let’s look at some of last week’s key games.
As mentioned earlier, TR North took care of Brick Memorial rather handily, 34-7. The story of this game was North QB Demetri Davis. While everyone in the shore was wondering if he could throw the football, he answered that question in a major way. Davis threw for 131 yards on a 9-10, 2 TD, performance. He also ran for 2 TDs and 89 yards. Not a bad night for our “player of the game”. Memorial put up a fight in the 1st half, but the Mariners turned up the heat in half number 2 and won easily. North now become BM fans in 2 weeks, when the Stangs face Howell. A win vs. the Rebels will probably create a 3 way tie, a loss gives the title to Howell.
In a big one in Monmouth County, the Rumson Bulldogs beat Shore Reg. 20-12. Coming off of their big Asbury Park win last week, the “Dawgs”, were primed for an upset. RB John Riley(90 yds.) and QB Sean Burke( 2 TD passes), led them this week. Coming off a game in which he was replaced by Junior QB Mike Villapiano, Burke was 11-15 for 130 yards to go with his 2 TD passes. Rumson travels to Keyport this Sat. afternoon which may decide the Patriot division.
Manasquan(4-0) got a solid performance from QB CJ Davis as he threw for 2 and ran for 1 in a 21-14 win over Barnegat. With a nice big target in Neal Sterling(6’4” 220 lbs.), Davis has enjoyed a great start throwing the football. How about 33 for 54(61%) for 490 yds. and 6 TDs, not a bad start for the 1st year QB. Squan have their eye on the prize, with big games vs. Raritan(division game) and Long Branch(non-con) coming up latter in year.
Teams to keep an eye on: Lacey(2-2) 2 straight and schedule is in their favor. RBC(3-2) 3 straight and playing well. Keyport(4-0) flying under radar all year. Middletown North(4-1) who would have thought they would have 4 wins at this point of season?
Quotable Quotes:
“They beat us bad last year, and Applegate had a great game. We know Brick is a hardcore football program, and they always give us a good fight. We just wanted to contain Applegate, get after him on every play and frustrate him a bit. If we did that, and ran the ball well, we knew we could win today.” (Mike Suppiello-defensive standout for Lacey on the game plan for beating Brick)
“I thought I did all right. I threw 4 picks, that’s never good. We still won though.” (Sophomore QB Kevin Phillips after his first full game as Freehold QB, in which he threw 2 TD passes, leading the Colonials to a 28-14 win over Jackson Liberty)
“I had a lot of free time today and I was able to think about it. I thought about all the faces I’ve seen over the years. Some of them aren’t even alive today.” (Head Coach Chuck Donahue-Southern, on his 200th career victory- a 34-6 win over Jackson)
”I really did not know what we were getting when we got off the bus. During the week, we practiced well, but you never know until you take the field. But I’m happy with the performance they put in. It was a trap game and they did not fall for it.” (Head Coach Steve Antonucci- Middletown South on his team’s 49-0 victory over Central.)
As mentioned above, special congratulations from the shore sports network to one of the good guys around the shore in Chuck Donahue. The head man at Southern picked up his 200th career victory with a win over Jackson on Friday night. Chuck has been at it for 36 years.
Top Ten:
1-Middletown South-(5-0)- Solid 49-0 win over Central. Kyle Bunge had 3TDs and 136 yards rushing. Next up Wall.
2-Howell(5-0)- Ellie Blue(now that’s a football name) scored 3 TDs(the first of his career) as the Rebels won 48-21 over Manalapan. Bye week for Will Hayes to heel from his concussion. They will need him down the line.
3- TR East(5-0)- the Raiders are playing well and have set their goals high-a state championship. It would be the school’s first. Nico and Mario Steriti continue to excel and Charlie Diskin is improving each week in the air. Next up Colts Neck, who beat the Raiders last year. Not this year!
4- Ocean(4-0) Coming off a 49-7 win over Colonia, the “Big Red” travel to undefeated Long Branch in the marquee game of the week. Brandon Robinson is a stud, but the “Wave” defense is tough. Should be a great game.
5-Manasquan(4-0)- CJ Davis accounted for 3 TDs in Manasquan’s 21-14 win over Barnegat. Crossover contest vs. Middlesex this week, as they tune-up for big games coming up.
6- Long Branch(5-0)- Big match-up with cross town rival Ocean his Saturday. Miles Shuler threw for 2 and rushed for 1, as the “Wave” cruised 50-7 over South Plainfield.
7- TR North(3-1)- Demetri Davis had a big night as North defeated Brick Mem. 34-7. Next up is Southern Reg. coming off a huge win over Jackson Memorial.
8-Neptune(3-1)- Coming off a bye week, they face winless Lakewood. That one will be ugly and the Fliers just have to take care of business, get the “W” and get out of there injury free. Middletown South game is 2 weeks away.
9-Rumson(5-0)- Sean Burke, who was replaced last week, returned to throw 2 TD passes, to beat Shore 20-12. Keyport will be a hostile place to play this Saturday.
10-Keyport(4-0)- Why not put the “Red Raiders” in the top ten. No longer under the “Sarluca” radar screen. Hopefully, for them, it won’t be a 1 week placing.
Just missed:
Matawan(3-1) Will face Ocean and Long Branch after Manchester this week.
Raritan(3-1) Any team with Bennett Jackson and Jessie Raymond on it, deserves to be mentioned.
RBC(3-2) Watch out for the Casey’s.
Asbury Park(3-1) Beat Mon Don 48-21 last week. Still smarting from Rumson loss.
Middletown North(4-1) This has been one of the surprise teams of year so far. They will face TR East on Oct 23rd.
Join us Thursday night at Boston’s in Toms River for out 2 hour football show. Joining us this week will be Southern Reg head coach Chuck Donahue among other guests from around the shore. 1160am, 1310, or on line on the shoresportsnetwork.com. Game of the week is Southern at TR North Friday night at 7pm
American-The winner looks like it will come from the camp of either Howell or TR North. North took care of Brick Memorial rather easily(34-7) and Howell put up 48 points in a game in which they threw for 437 yards, against Manalapan. If Howell beats Brick Mem., 2 weeks from now, they will win that division. If Memorial can pull off the upset it might create a 3 way tie among the 3 schools.
Constitution- TR East has a strangle hold on the title, as they demolished Marlboro 54-0. Nico and Mario Steriti continue to wreck havoc on the rest of the shore. If Mom continues to feed this team, there’s no telling how far they can go.
Federal- Looks like this one will come down to Oct. 24th when Mid South travels to Neptune with the trophy on line. Both must be careful not to get tripped up next week. Mid South has the toughest of games as they get Wall while Neptune gets winless Lakewood.
Liberty-Although Ocean is 4-0, they have played only 1 conf. game, a win against Manchester. They enter the meat-grinder for their next 3, as they travel to Long Branch and Matawan and then get RBC at home. That’s not an easy road to a championship, and if they win it they will have earned it. Of course those 3 other teams all have their eyes on the prize also. It’s too early to predict this one. Some great weeks are ahead in the Liberty Division.
National-This one will come down to a Halloween afternoon(Oct 31st) at Manasquan, when Raritan comes calling. Manasquan is still un-defeated(4-0), while Raritan’s only blemish is a non-con. loss to Matawan.
Patriot-This week-Rumson(5-0) and Keyport(4-0), for the championship, at the home of the Red Raiders. There is nothing like an afternoon game at Keyport with everything on the line. As the band and fans travel down Jackson St. to the field, the tension begins to build. Mike Ciccotelli, has made many trips down that road in his 32 years as the head man of the Raiders. Will this one be a championship walk? We shall see.
That summarizes the divisions as we head to week 6. While many schools are fighting for championships, there is also one eye on the State Playoffs. We are quickly approaching the cut-off date of November 7th(8 games). More to come, on that subject, next week. Let’s look at some of last week’s key games.
As mentioned earlier, TR North took care of Brick Memorial rather handily, 34-7. The story of this game was North QB Demetri Davis. While everyone in the shore was wondering if he could throw the football, he answered that question in a major way. Davis threw for 131 yards on a 9-10, 2 TD, performance. He also ran for 2 TDs and 89 yards. Not a bad night for our “player of the game”. Memorial put up a fight in the 1st half, but the Mariners turned up the heat in half number 2 and won easily. North now become BM fans in 2 weeks, when the Stangs face Howell. A win vs. the Rebels will probably create a 3 way tie, a loss gives the title to Howell.
In a big one in Monmouth County, the Rumson Bulldogs beat Shore Reg. 20-12. Coming off of their big Asbury Park win last week, the “Dawgs”, were primed for an upset. RB John Riley(90 yds.) and QB Sean Burke( 2 TD passes), led them this week. Coming off a game in which he was replaced by Junior QB Mike Villapiano, Burke was 11-15 for 130 yards to go with his 2 TD passes. Rumson travels to Keyport this Sat. afternoon which may decide the Patriot division.
Manasquan(4-0) got a solid performance from QB CJ Davis as he threw for 2 and ran for 1 in a 21-14 win over Barnegat. With a nice big target in Neal Sterling(6’4” 220 lbs.), Davis has enjoyed a great start throwing the football. How about 33 for 54(61%) for 490 yds. and 6 TDs, not a bad start for the 1st year QB. Squan have their eye on the prize, with big games vs. Raritan(division game) and Long Branch(non-con) coming up latter in year.
Teams to keep an eye on: Lacey(2-2) 2 straight and schedule is in their favor. RBC(3-2) 3 straight and playing well. Keyport(4-0) flying under radar all year. Middletown North(4-1) who would have thought they would have 4 wins at this point of season?
Quotable Quotes:
“They beat us bad last year, and Applegate had a great game. We know Brick is a hardcore football program, and they always give us a good fight. We just wanted to contain Applegate, get after him on every play and frustrate him a bit. If we did that, and ran the ball well, we knew we could win today.” (Mike Suppiello-defensive standout for Lacey on the game plan for beating Brick)
“I thought I did all right. I threw 4 picks, that’s never good. We still won though.” (Sophomore QB Kevin Phillips after his first full game as Freehold QB, in which he threw 2 TD passes, leading the Colonials to a 28-14 win over Jackson Liberty)
“I had a lot of free time today and I was able to think about it. I thought about all the faces I’ve seen over the years. Some of them aren’t even alive today.” (Head Coach Chuck Donahue-Southern, on his 200th career victory- a 34-6 win over Jackson)
”I really did not know what we were getting when we got off the bus. During the week, we practiced well, but you never know until you take the field. But I’m happy with the performance they put in. It was a trap game and they did not fall for it.” (Head Coach Steve Antonucci- Middletown South on his team’s 49-0 victory over Central.)
As mentioned above, special congratulations from the shore sports network to one of the good guys around the shore in Chuck Donahue. The head man at Southern picked up his 200th career victory with a win over Jackson on Friday night. Chuck has been at it for 36 years.
Top Ten:
1-Middletown South-(5-0)- Solid 49-0 win over Central. Kyle Bunge had 3TDs and 136 yards rushing. Next up Wall.
2-Howell(5-0)- Ellie Blue(now that’s a football name) scored 3 TDs(the first of his career) as the Rebels won 48-21 over Manalapan. Bye week for Will Hayes to heel from his concussion. They will need him down the line.
3- TR East(5-0)- the Raiders are playing well and have set their goals high-a state championship. It would be the school’s first. Nico and Mario Steriti continue to excel and Charlie Diskin is improving each week in the air. Next up Colts Neck, who beat the Raiders last year. Not this year!
4- Ocean(4-0) Coming off a 49-7 win over Colonia, the “Big Red” travel to undefeated Long Branch in the marquee game of the week. Brandon Robinson is a stud, but the “Wave” defense is tough. Should be a great game.
5-Manasquan(4-0)- CJ Davis accounted for 3 TDs in Manasquan’s 21-14 win over Barnegat. Crossover contest vs. Middlesex this week, as they tune-up for big games coming up.
6- Long Branch(5-0)- Big match-up with cross town rival Ocean his Saturday. Miles Shuler threw for 2 and rushed for 1, as the “Wave” cruised 50-7 over South Plainfield.
7- TR North(3-1)- Demetri Davis had a big night as North defeated Brick Mem. 34-7. Next up is Southern Reg. coming off a huge win over Jackson Memorial.
8-Neptune(3-1)- Coming off a bye week, they face winless Lakewood. That one will be ugly and the Fliers just have to take care of business, get the “W” and get out of there injury free. Middletown South game is 2 weeks away.
9-Rumson(5-0)- Sean Burke, who was replaced last week, returned to throw 2 TD passes, to beat Shore 20-12. Keyport will be a hostile place to play this Saturday.
10-Keyport(4-0)- Why not put the “Red Raiders” in the top ten. No longer under the “Sarluca” radar screen. Hopefully, for them, it won’t be a 1 week placing.
Just missed:
Matawan(3-1) Will face Ocean and Long Branch after Manchester this week.
Raritan(3-1) Any team with Bennett Jackson and Jessie Raymond on it, deserves to be mentioned.
RBC(3-2) Watch out for the Casey’s.
Asbury Park(3-1) Beat Mon Don 48-21 last week. Still smarting from Rumson loss.
Middletown North(4-1) This has been one of the surprise teams of year so far. They will face TR East on Oct 23rd.
Join us Thursday night at Boston’s in Toms River for out 2 hour football show. Joining us this week will be Southern Reg head coach Chuck Donahue among other guests from around the shore. 1160am, 1310, or on line on the shoresportsnetwork.com. Game of the week is Southern at TR North Friday night at 7pm
Monday, October 5, 2009
Weekend of 10/2 + 10/3
Scanning the high school football scene with Ed Sarluca: Week 4
Top Ten:
1-Middletown South(4-0) A sloppy but quality “W”(21-10) against Freehold Boro at the swamp. Freehold turned it over 6 times to “give” Mid South the ball game. Despite 4 turnovers themselves, the Eagles continue their undefeated season. Next up is Central who rushed for over 500 yards vs. Lakewood on Sunday.
2-Howell(4-0) Huge 7-3 win over Toms River North gives the Rebels a leg up in American Division. They still have to face a tough Brick Memorial team in 3 weeks, but Jimmy Ryan and company look and play like champions.
3-Toms River East(4-0) The Raiders have just about clinched the Constitution Division with their easy 37-7 lopsided victory over Brick. 2 easy ones, with Marlboro and Colts Neck and then their last major challenge in division play when they face Mid North at home. This week, Dan Wasilick returned the opening KO 83 yards and they never looked back.
4-Ocean(3-0) A not real good Colonia team faces the “Big Red” this week, coming off their bye week and then we will see how good this team is, with games against Long Branch, Matawan and RBC. If they run that table, they will be the favorite in CJ Group 3.
5-Manasquan(3-0) The “Big Blue” continues to roll with a 28-6 win over previously undefeated Pinelands. They should continue to take care of business until they get Raritan and Long Branch in week 7&8.
6-Long Branch(4-0) The “Green Wave” just keeps rolling along with a stingy defense and enough offense to keep the wins coming. South Plainfield up next and the meat grinder starts with Ocean, Matawan and Manasquan on the schedule.
7-Neptune(3-1) A very impressive shutout(39-0) of previously un-scored upon Wall has made me a believer and they enter the top ten this week. Charlie Davis had a night to remember with 4 TDs and 227 total yards as the Fliers built a 39-0 lead at the half and then pulled the dogs. Neptune will rest this week on their bye , then face winless Lakewood and then the big one with Mid South on Oct 24.
8-Toms River North(2-1) This is a team which I can’t get a read on. A big powerful offensive line, skill at all the key positions and they can’t score! 2 games in a row without an offensive TD, that won’t get it done in the American Division. Now they must hope someone beats Howell or their championship dreams are over. Next up provides no rest for the Mariners as they travel to Brick Memorial on Friday night.
9-Brick Memorial(3-1) With only a loss to undefeated Sayreville, the Mustangs enter the meat of their schedule with TR North, Manalapan and Howell in the next 3 weeks. A come from behind overtime win(21-14) this week vs. Jackson sets them up for another run at the CJ Group 4 playoffs.
10-Rumson(4-0) What an impressive victory over Asbury Park this week. The 26-18 win gets them into the top ten. Using the double pass to score the go ahead TD in the 4th quarter, the Bulldogs made a statement on Saturday. John Riley(130 rushing yds.) was very good on the ground and super soph Mike Villapiano led the “Dawgs” from the QB position.
Best of the rest:
Keyport(3-0) The Red Raiders continue to fly low and continue to win. 42-7 over Point Beach on Friday night has set up a huge one on Oct 17th vs. Rumson.
Raritan(3-1) One loss will not define their season. Nice bounce back win over winless Point Boro by a 42-7 score.
Matawan(3-1) Well what can you say, after the big win against Raritan last week, they lay the egg this week vs. RBC and find themselves on the outside looking in.
RBC(2-2) Watch out for the Casey’s, they are getting better each week.
Asbury Park(2-1) Should get back on track in next few weeks, after the loss to Rumson.
A potentially bad weather weekend turned out to be another bad forecast by the experts, as the rains and winds stayed away and we saw some interesting results.
Toms River East made a bold statement to the rest of the Constitution Division as they rolled over Brick, 37-7. The Raiders, in my opinion, will be 8-0 going into the SJ Group 4 playoffs. That’s important, because that should get them 1 or 2 home playoff games. It’s never too early to start thinking about the playoffs.
Middletown South, turned 4 fumbles and 2 interceptions by Freehold Boro into a 21-10 victory at the “swamp”. That set the Eagles up for the Oct 24th matchup with Neptune, which will decide the Federal Division. QB Scott Meeker continues to impress as he threw 2 TD passes in the victory.
Neptune’s 39-0 demolition of Wall will be remembered as the night RB Charlie Davis came of age. Davis scored 2 on the ground, 1 in the air and 1 more via an interception return, as the Fliers rolled for 339 yards of total offense, most of which came in the 1st half!
I had the pleasure to take a ride to Asbury Park on Saturday afternoon, not to see the “Boss”, but to witness Rumson’s 26-18 win over the Bishops. Using the double pass, which began with a flare from Soph QB Mike Villapiano to Ian Moore, and then to Jack Wise, for the 30 yard TD score, the “Dawgs” made a statement in the Patriot Division. They now control their destiny, if they want that crown.
With my wife understanding that this is football season, I also took in the Howell’s 7-3 victory over Toms River North on Sat. night. With everyone raving about the Howell offense, it was defense that won this one for the Rebels. As head coach Cory Davies knows, this season will be defined by his defense, not his offense. They are an under-rated bunch, which bent, but did not break. TR North’s plight is simple; they must find a way to get into the end zone. They move the ball with ease, but 1 or 2 mistakes per drive, and they are forced to settle for 3 points or turn it over on downs. Their excellent defense has been carrying them so far.
Congratulations to Nick Giglio of Red Bank for picking up his first victory at his new school. Nick was a very successful head coach at Point Beach HS and I am rooting for him to turn the Red Bank program around. With his work ethic and personality, that will be a given.
Keansburg’s come from behind win over Mon. Don.(16-13) was extra special to head Coach Brian Kmak. Kmak spent most of Saturday afternoon’s game at the hospital with his daughter who was taken to the emergency room on Friday night. When his daughter was cleared to return home, Kmak, rushed to the game and saw the last few moments of the Titan win. In his absence, assistant coaches Tom O’Keefe and George Kostas ran the team. I love happy endings!
Congratulations to Allentown’s John Amabile who picked up his 2nd win of the year with a 42-0 rout of Marist. Allentown won all of 2 games in the last 3 years. Why did I know he would surpass that total in just 3 games of his first season?
A special sad mention to family and friends of SJ V player Dan Falco, who died this past week of a non-football related illness. Also, the ever successful shore head coaches Mike and Mark Ciccotelli, as well as another brother Steve, lost their father last week, at the age of 87. Sal Ciccotelli was so proud of his 3 sons, all of which have had successful coaching careers around the state. The prayers of all players and coaches around the shore go out to the families of Dan and the Ciccotelli’s.
Some notable quotes of week 4:
“I feel especially happy for the seniors. They went through some down years, but they stuck it out and deserve this.” (Head Coach Nick Giglio on his team’s 28-6 victory over Dunellen.)
“The start of the season was a true test of our character. It was refreshing to see all of the hard work pay off today. A.J. had a big game. The offensive line gave him time to throw, that was the key.”(Head Coach Sal Spampanato of Monmouth Reg. on his team’s 53-14 win over South Plainfield.)
“Turnovers are tempo-setters. That’s what we did, we set the tempo for the rest of the game.” (Jake Flaherty, DB at RBC on the 20-7 upset win over Matawan. Flaherty had a 26 yd. interception return for a TD.)
“We all call him the “Waterbug”, and the Waterbug busted one out there”. (Nico Steriti on team-mate Dan Wasilick’s 83 yard TD on the opening kickoff of TR East’s 37-7 in over Brick.)
“Every team practices a 2-minute offense, our backs were against the wall and we found a way to move the ball.” (Head Coach Walt Currie of Brick Mem. on his team’s game tying TD in the last 2 minutes of regulation time. The “Stangs” won it in overtime 21-14.)
A big one in the American Division as TR North visits Brick Mem. on Friday night. Join us at shoresportsnetwork.com, as we broadcast this important game. 1160am, 1310am and 105.7 The Hawk will have the game on. Also join us at Boston’s on Thursday night for our 2 hour talk show, featured this week will be coaches Walt Currie and Chip LaBarca Jr, along with key players from their teams. That’s 6-8 pm on Thursday also on shoresportsnetwork.com.
Top Ten:
1-Middletown South(4-0) A sloppy but quality “W”(21-10) against Freehold Boro at the swamp. Freehold turned it over 6 times to “give” Mid South the ball game. Despite 4 turnovers themselves, the Eagles continue their undefeated season. Next up is Central who rushed for over 500 yards vs. Lakewood on Sunday.
2-Howell(4-0) Huge 7-3 win over Toms River North gives the Rebels a leg up in American Division. They still have to face a tough Brick Memorial team in 3 weeks, but Jimmy Ryan and company look and play like champions.
3-Toms River East(4-0) The Raiders have just about clinched the Constitution Division with their easy 37-7 lopsided victory over Brick. 2 easy ones, with Marlboro and Colts Neck and then their last major challenge in division play when they face Mid North at home. This week, Dan Wasilick returned the opening KO 83 yards and they never looked back.
4-Ocean(3-0) A not real good Colonia team faces the “Big Red” this week, coming off their bye week and then we will see how good this team is, with games against Long Branch, Matawan and RBC. If they run that table, they will be the favorite in CJ Group 3.
5-Manasquan(3-0) The “Big Blue” continues to roll with a 28-6 win over previously undefeated Pinelands. They should continue to take care of business until they get Raritan and Long Branch in week 7&8.
6-Long Branch(4-0) The “Green Wave” just keeps rolling along with a stingy defense and enough offense to keep the wins coming. South Plainfield up next and the meat grinder starts with Ocean, Matawan and Manasquan on the schedule.
7-Neptune(3-1) A very impressive shutout(39-0) of previously un-scored upon Wall has made me a believer and they enter the top ten this week. Charlie Davis had a night to remember with 4 TDs and 227 total yards as the Fliers built a 39-0 lead at the half and then pulled the dogs. Neptune will rest this week on their bye , then face winless Lakewood and then the big one with Mid South on Oct 24.
8-Toms River North(2-1) This is a team which I can’t get a read on. A big powerful offensive line, skill at all the key positions and they can’t score! 2 games in a row without an offensive TD, that won’t get it done in the American Division. Now they must hope someone beats Howell or their championship dreams are over. Next up provides no rest for the Mariners as they travel to Brick Memorial on Friday night.
9-Brick Memorial(3-1) With only a loss to undefeated Sayreville, the Mustangs enter the meat of their schedule with TR North, Manalapan and Howell in the next 3 weeks. A come from behind overtime win(21-14) this week vs. Jackson sets them up for another run at the CJ Group 4 playoffs.
10-Rumson(4-0) What an impressive victory over Asbury Park this week. The 26-18 win gets them into the top ten. Using the double pass to score the go ahead TD in the 4th quarter, the Bulldogs made a statement on Saturday. John Riley(130 rushing yds.) was very good on the ground and super soph Mike Villapiano led the “Dawgs” from the QB position.
Best of the rest:
Keyport(3-0) The Red Raiders continue to fly low and continue to win. 42-7 over Point Beach on Friday night has set up a huge one on Oct 17th vs. Rumson.
Raritan(3-1) One loss will not define their season. Nice bounce back win over winless Point Boro by a 42-7 score.
Matawan(3-1) Well what can you say, after the big win against Raritan last week, they lay the egg this week vs. RBC and find themselves on the outside looking in.
RBC(2-2) Watch out for the Casey’s, they are getting better each week.
Asbury Park(2-1) Should get back on track in next few weeks, after the loss to Rumson.
A potentially bad weather weekend turned out to be another bad forecast by the experts, as the rains and winds stayed away and we saw some interesting results.
Toms River East made a bold statement to the rest of the Constitution Division as they rolled over Brick, 37-7. The Raiders, in my opinion, will be 8-0 going into the SJ Group 4 playoffs. That’s important, because that should get them 1 or 2 home playoff games. It’s never too early to start thinking about the playoffs.
Middletown South, turned 4 fumbles and 2 interceptions by Freehold Boro into a 21-10 victory at the “swamp”. That set the Eagles up for the Oct 24th matchup with Neptune, which will decide the Federal Division. QB Scott Meeker continues to impress as he threw 2 TD passes in the victory.
Neptune’s 39-0 demolition of Wall will be remembered as the night RB Charlie Davis came of age. Davis scored 2 on the ground, 1 in the air and 1 more via an interception return, as the Fliers rolled for 339 yards of total offense, most of which came in the 1st half!
I had the pleasure to take a ride to Asbury Park on Saturday afternoon, not to see the “Boss”, but to witness Rumson’s 26-18 win over the Bishops. Using the double pass, which began with a flare from Soph QB Mike Villapiano to Ian Moore, and then to Jack Wise, for the 30 yard TD score, the “Dawgs” made a statement in the Patriot Division. They now control their destiny, if they want that crown.
With my wife understanding that this is football season, I also took in the Howell’s 7-3 victory over Toms River North on Sat. night. With everyone raving about the Howell offense, it was defense that won this one for the Rebels. As head coach Cory Davies knows, this season will be defined by his defense, not his offense. They are an under-rated bunch, which bent, but did not break. TR North’s plight is simple; they must find a way to get into the end zone. They move the ball with ease, but 1 or 2 mistakes per drive, and they are forced to settle for 3 points or turn it over on downs. Their excellent defense has been carrying them so far.
Congratulations to Nick Giglio of Red Bank for picking up his first victory at his new school. Nick was a very successful head coach at Point Beach HS and I am rooting for him to turn the Red Bank program around. With his work ethic and personality, that will be a given.
Keansburg’s come from behind win over Mon. Don.(16-13) was extra special to head Coach Brian Kmak. Kmak spent most of Saturday afternoon’s game at the hospital with his daughter who was taken to the emergency room on Friday night. When his daughter was cleared to return home, Kmak, rushed to the game and saw the last few moments of the Titan win. In his absence, assistant coaches Tom O’Keefe and George Kostas ran the team. I love happy endings!
Congratulations to Allentown’s John Amabile who picked up his 2nd win of the year with a 42-0 rout of Marist. Allentown won all of 2 games in the last 3 years. Why did I know he would surpass that total in just 3 games of his first season?
A special sad mention to family and friends of SJ V player Dan Falco, who died this past week of a non-football related illness. Also, the ever successful shore head coaches Mike and Mark Ciccotelli, as well as another brother Steve, lost their father last week, at the age of 87. Sal Ciccotelli was so proud of his 3 sons, all of which have had successful coaching careers around the state. The prayers of all players and coaches around the shore go out to the families of Dan and the Ciccotelli’s.
Some notable quotes of week 4:
“I feel especially happy for the seniors. They went through some down years, but they stuck it out and deserve this.” (Head Coach Nick Giglio on his team’s 28-6 victory over Dunellen.)
“The start of the season was a true test of our character. It was refreshing to see all of the hard work pay off today. A.J. had a big game. The offensive line gave him time to throw, that was the key.”(Head Coach Sal Spampanato of Monmouth Reg. on his team’s 53-14 win over South Plainfield.)
“Turnovers are tempo-setters. That’s what we did, we set the tempo for the rest of the game.” (Jake Flaherty, DB at RBC on the 20-7 upset win over Matawan. Flaherty had a 26 yd. interception return for a TD.)
“We all call him the “Waterbug”, and the Waterbug busted one out there”. (Nico Steriti on team-mate Dan Wasilick’s 83 yard TD on the opening kickoff of TR East’s 37-7 in over Brick.)
“Every team practices a 2-minute offense, our backs were against the wall and we found a way to move the ball.” (Head Coach Walt Currie of Brick Mem. on his team’s game tying TD in the last 2 minutes of regulation time. The “Stangs” won it in overtime 21-14.)
A big one in the American Division as TR North visits Brick Mem. on Friday night. Join us at shoresportsnetwork.com, as we broadcast this important game. 1160am, 1310am and 105.7 The Hawk will have the game on. Also join us at Boston’s on Thursday night for our 2 hour talk show, featured this week will be coaches Walt Currie and Chip LaBarca Jr, along with key players from their teams. That’s 6-8 pm on Thursday also on shoresportsnetwork.com.
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