VIDEO: Ramapo starts quickly and knocks out Bergenfield | ||
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What many expected to be a tough game turned into an easy day for the Ramapo football team. And one play helped get the ball rolling for the Green Raiders. Matt Giacose ran the opening kickoff back 83 yards for a touchdown, and Ramapo never looked back in a 51-15 first-round state playoff win over Bergenfield. Giacose later added three touchdowns rushing to lead the Raiders' attack.
The Ramapo defense was impressive in shutting down the dangerous Bears offense. Bergenfield did not score against the Raiders' starting unit, which contained quarterback Jovani Haskins and shut down the running game for the visitors. Sean Dougherty threw a pair of first-half touchdown passes as the Green Raiders built a 34-0 lead by the break. Dan Diaz returned a fumble for Ramapo's final touchdown of the game. Haskins scored both of Bergenfield's touchdowns on short runs. It was the Bears' first appearance in the state playoffs in 25 years; seventh-seeded Bergenfield finishes the season at 4-6. Ramapo, the second seed in North 1, Group III, will host River Dell in the sectional semifinals next week. The Raiders are now 8-2. For sports video highlights of this New Jersey high school football state playoff game, click play in the box at left. |