D2 Sports Network's latest series, "A Student's Perspective," offers an inside look at a sideline reporting standpoint from the eyes of a high school student. This week, Jacob Girnius, a student at Cherokee High School, provides his thoughts on Friday's matchup between Bishop Eustace and Riverside at Rocky Cancelleri Stadium in Riverside, New Jersey.
Riverside's Justin Mary (1) warms up before the Rams' game against Bishop Eustace played at Rocky Cancelleri Stadium in Riverside, New Jersey on Friday, September 29, 2023. Jacob Girnius/D2 Sports Network
RIVERSIDE (N.J.) - The stage was set for a ferocious Friday night showdown between two teams searching for their fourth win of the season. The Bishop Eustace Crusaders took the trip north up Route 130 to square off with the Riverside Rams in a West Jersey Football League Horizon Division showdown.
A multitude of fans packed the Rams' bleachers to celebrate Senior Night.
It was time for kickoff.
On the signal of the referee, the ball was booted by Riverside to the Crusaders' side of the field. The first drive ended via a three-and-out. This turned into a trend for Bishop Eustace, as they competed short handed with only fourteen players dressed for varsity due to a starting lineup riddled with injuries.
Riverside took possession of the ball and quickly made its mark as sophomore Justin Mary dashed in his No. 1 jersey on a run that resulted in a 68- yard touchdown. The Rams added a successful two-point conversion to make the score 8-0. Fans went absolutely ballistic for the long run with mothers, fathers, and classmates cheering.
Both parties switched possession multiple times before the Rams decided it was time to put more points on the scoreboard. Late in the second quarter, senior running back John Boston ran the ball 16 yards with haste for the Rams second touchdown of the night. The play was quickly followed by another successful two-point conversion on a run by Mary. The Rams held a 16-0 lead at halftime.
Halftime was full of fan excitement in Rams' territory, as seniors from the football team, cheerleading team, and marching band were recognized with their friends and family as escorts. Fans roared as the seniors walked down the track to signify the beginning of the end to their respective high school football careers.
After a thoughtful halftime celebration full of senior recognition, Riverside was eager to get back to the gridiron for the second half.
The Rams' quickly struck again with their run game and Boston rushed for his second touchdown of the night. Another two-point conversion run by Mary increased the score.
Seven minutes later, Mary rushed for a touchdown and Boston added two points to give the Rams a 38-0 advantage.
The duo couldn't be stopped.
Late in the fourth quarter, running back Mekhi Simmons ended the scoring drought for Bishop Eustace with a 24-yard score. Freshman running back Terrance Goffney ran in the 2 point conversion to cut the deficit to 38-8.
Riverside wasn't finished. Senior full back Anthony Schippnick ran the ball in for one final score to secure a 46-8 win for the Rams.
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