The Eagles A Varsity will have to win their remaining two games to make the playoffs, after dropping a heartbreaking 14-8 decision to the Cedar Grove Panthers in the game’s final seconds. With the victory, Cedar Grove took back the Mayor’s Trophy, which had resided in Verona for the past year.
The Eagles dominated the first half, but only could put eight points up on the scoreboard. Mark Riggio got the ball on the first three carries of the game; pounding for five, seven and then 45 yards. Fullback Chris Aldiero and the offensive line of Kyle Brennan, Sam Cummings, Carter Kenny, Dane Kish and David Gautieri kept pushing the panthers D, until Matt Zebrowski scored on a quarterback keeper. Mike Carlucci boomed the extra point kick, and the Eagles were up 8-0.
After stopping the Panthers cold, the Eagles were again in business. Zebo passed 25 yards to John DeMartinis down to the 10 yard line, and the Eagles were threatening to take a commanding two touchdown lead. However penalties stalled out the drive.
The Panthers would score on their opening drive of the second half to tie the score at 8-8, and would take the lead with just 16 seconds to play.
Now 3-3, the Eagles A Varsity will need to defeat both the 4-1-1 Florham Park Falcons and the 5-1 Caldwell Chiefs to secure a playoff berth. First up is a road game at Florham Park this Saturday night at 8 p.m. Coach Lupo will have his team ready to go!
