Young football team earns win against EB

Posted byknightlifeobPosted inSportsTags:, , , , ,
The team cheers as junior running back Stephen Davies, who leads the team in rushing yards with 308, runs the ball in for a touchdown against South Brunswick.

BY AVERY PERSON

Sports Page Editor

            The varsity football team won their first game of the season against rival East Brunswick on Friday. Both teams fought in a close, physical battle from start to finish, but the Knights took the win by a score of 30-28.

            Following the victory, the team’s record stands at 1-4. “It felt great to go out there and get a win, but the whole team isn’t satisfied,” said sophomore quarterback Brody Nugent. “There are still mistakes that need to be fixed, but we are going to work on that and move on to Piscataway and look get another win.”

            Junior Jaden Griffith had a breakout game, contributing 28 rushing yards and scoring on a 79-yard touchdown reception and an 82-yard kick return. “My team was blocking very well on those plays giving me the opportunity to break out,” said Griffith. 

          The lead changed hands throughout the game, but the Knight finished the game strong, just like they hope to finish the rest of the season. “Our team this year is motivated, and we are all working together towards the same goal: winning games!” exclaimed Nugent

Sophomore Jayden Endaz brings in a pass along the sideline before getting dragged down from behind.

            The team outclassed East Brunswick by showing more heart and tenacity when the game mattered most “We wanted it more than them”, said Griffith.  

            The youth of the team may have contributed to the slow start to the season, but the players hope they turned a corner with the win. “I think our first half was definitely affected by the number of underclassmen and new varsity starters playing, but I feel like now we’ve all had a chance to adjust,” said junior running back Stephen Davies.  

            While seniors like Pietro Gambino, who leads the team in receiving with 268, and Kevin Diaz who made a key interception against the Bears, have made their mark, Underclassmen currently lead the team in most statistical categories, including passing (Nugent – 766 yards), rushing (Davies – 306 yards), and tackles (sophomore Thomas Kasoff – 36). “We are young, but we are hungry,” explained Kasoff. “With Coach Donaghue as our leader, the Knights future is bright.”

Sophomore quarterback Brody Nugent and the rest of the offense step to the line in the home opener as the sun sets.

            Entering the second half of the season, the players will look to build on last week’s win as they match up with Piscataway in the Homecoming game tomorrow night. “Just play our game and keep the same energy throughout all four quarters, and it’ll be a win,” said Davies. 

Posted on 9/28/23

Photos by Chloe Fusco