On Friday night, our 2-1 Marlboro Mustangs faced off against the 2-1 Rumson Fair Haven Bulldogs in an exciting matchup under the lights. Fans, students, and teachers packed the bleachers, all showing their school spirit by wearing neon attire. The high school band kept the energy high by playing enthusiastic music, and the cheerleaders added to their energy with cheers and chants. Both the Mustangs and the Bulldogs were hoping to bring their teams to a 3-1 start to the season, but only one can come out on top. Star Running Back and Cornerback, Chris Scaff, when asked about his thoughts regarding the game, responded with, “They always doubt us,”. Wide Receiver and Cornerback Tristan Lawless added, “We want to shock the shore,”. As the game whistle blew, the opening kickoff was a signal for a soon-to-be hard-fought battle. 

The first half was all one-sided to the Bulldogs. Quarterback and Cornerback, Nick Dimino, started off the first quarter with an amazing interception. Although the offense was not clicking for the Mustangs, their defense was keeping them in the game for the first few drives. Including tackle for losses by Zachary Mojares and Ardy Mehmedaj. The Bulldogs soon found their rhythm, capitalizing on an unfortunate interception, thrown by Nick Dimino, which put RFH up 7-0. The Bulldogs did not slow down, adding 31 more points in the first half, putting the game to halftime with a score of 38-0. The Mustang coach, Jason Degato, attempted to spark some light behind the players during halftime with a speech, in hopes of a comeback in the second half. 

After Half, the Mustangs gave it all they had, but ultimately lost 38–7. The Mustangs were able to score a spectacular touchdown in the third quarter, helping them break through after a scoreless 1st half. The rising offense led the defense to settle down and seal the second half, allowing zero points. Offensively, Starting Quarterback Nick Dimino started to pick up some rhythm, throwing 7 receptions and rushing for 25 yards. Supporters were still rowdy and enthusiastic, appreciating the effort no matter the score. It wasn’t the result they wanted, but their effort was to be applauded and showed the Mustangs’ hearts.