In a thrilling and hard-fought battle, the Mountain Lakes Lakers emerged victorious over the Glassboro Bulldogs, claiming their third consecutive NJSIAA Group 1 championship with a heart-stopping 24-21 victory.
What it is: Varsity Boys Football
Matchup: Mountain Lakes Lakers vs. Glassboro Bulldogs
Game Type: Playoff
Bracket: 2023 New Jersey High School Football Playoff Brackets: NJSIAA – Group 1
Time: Sanday Nov 26, 2023, 11:00 AM (Local Time)
Locations: Rutgers University – NJ
Home Team: Glassboro Bulldogs 9-3
Away Team: Mountain Lakes Lakers 10-2
Live Stream: Watch here
The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading scores throughout the contest. The Lakers took an early lead in the first quarter when quarterback connected with wide receiver for a 20-yard touchdown pass. However, the Bulldogs responded with a touchdown of their own in the second quarter when running back punched it in from one yard out.
The third quarter saw the Lakers regain the lead when scampered for a 35-yard touchdown run. But once again, the Bulldogs refused to go away, as found for a 40-yard touchdown pass to tie the game at 14-14 heading into the final frame.
The fourth quarter was a tense and dramatic affair, with both teams vying for the game-winning score. With just over two minutes remaining in the game, the Lakers took advantage of a Bulldogs fumble and drove down the field. capped off the drive with a one-yard touchdown run, giving the Lakers a 21-14 lead.
The Bulldogs, however, were not done yet. They responded with a quick drive of their own, and scored his second touchdown of the game to tie the score at 21-21 with just 30 seconds remaining.
It looked as if the game was headed for overtime, but the Lakers had other plans. On the ensuing kickoff, fielded the ball and returned it 75 yards for a touchdown, giving the Lakers a 27-21 lead with just seconds left on the clock.
The Bulldogs tried one last Hail Mary pass, but the ball fell incomplete, and the Lakers had secured their third straight NJSIAA Group 1 title.
For the Bulldogs, threw for 120 yards and a touchdown, and rushed for 80 yards and two touchdowns.
The Lakers’ victory was a testament to their hard work and dedication throughout the season. They overcame numerous challenges, including injuries and close losses, to achieve their ultimate goal of winning a championship.
The loss was a tough one for the Bulldogs, but they can hold their heads high knowing that they gave it their all. They competed with heart and determination, and they came within seconds of pulling off an upset.
The 2023 NJSIAA Group 1 championship game was a memorable one, and it will be one that Lakers and Bulldogs fans will cherish for years to come.
