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In the final regular season game, cross-town rivals DePaul and Wayne Valley took the football field in front of 1,500 fans. This back and forth high scoring affair showcased an abundance of huge plays, consistent running games and a perfectly executed game winning drive by DePaul in a 42-35 victory.
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After missing out on the playoffs, a young DePaul team came out strong in their effort to make a season ending statement and prove their critics wrong. Sticking with what worked for them all season, the Spartans were led by senior running back James Jurewicz who had 3 TDs and added to his statewide lead in rushing yards.
Adding to the monster offensive output was quarterback Dan Farley, who threw for 3 touchdowns and had a few key runs. Wide receiver Dan Foesel caught two scoring passes, whle Shakim Phillips had a TD catch and a couple of long runs to set up scores.
For Wayne Valley, Ryan Durr continued his fine all-purpose season with 3 touchdowns, one of which was off a punt return and the others coming on long gains from scrimmage.
After storming out to a 20-0 lead, DePaul looked ready to put this football game out of reach in a hurry. But, as they have done all season, Wayne Valley righted the ship after falling behind and put on a thriller for the packed crowd.
Going in to the fourth quarter, the score was even and it looked as if nothing could separate the two sides. It looked as if the Indians were going to continue their trend of come from behind victories, but the hunger of DePaul prevailed in the end.
Playing in his next-to-last high school football game, Jurewicz took the field for one final drive with 3 minutes remaining. Coach John McKenna utilized his power running game as much as possible. "I think we used the same running play 6 times in a row," he said. Jurewicz slowly pounded his way down the field while the Spartans managed the clock wisely.
With 13 seconds left, Jurewicz finished what he had started with a 3 yard plunge to top off an outstanding football season. The Spartans are 7-2 and will play once more in a consolation game next week.
After the loss, Wayne Valley drops to 7-2 but will be the #2 seed in its New Jersey state playoff bracket, and will host a first-round game next weekend. -- Anthony Mulvihill for Jersey Sports Now
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