Tough night in Montville

When you get down to it, Montville was just a better team but there was that one moment in the game when Pequannock felt they were in the game. When they made a play that was a difference maker. Following the Mustang's second TD which put them up 14-0, Joe Ruggiero took the ensuing kick off coast-to-coast. As he broke through the Montville contain he turned on the after burners and was actually pulling away from his pursuers as he got nearer to the end zone. The sideline was going nuts as soon as it became apparent what was going to happen on the play.
The Panther side of the field, that no doubt had to face the same traffic snarls that I met which occur anytime it rains in northern New Jersey, braved the elements, sitting in a steady, heavy mist to support the team. I give them credit; they sat and got wet watching and supporting a team that has not had much recent success. They were also going crazy when Ruggiero crossed the goal line. Granted Montville scored on their next play from scrimmage, but the fact that the team and their fans could revel in a high point just accentuates the fact that when they break this losing streak, the celebration will be incredible as they lift what has to be a 10-ton weight from their collective backs. The feeling was fleeting, but real.
High School sports are supposed to be a diversion and another means of education as it teaches life's lessons in a competitive and physical means. They are supposed to be fun and while the team may enjoy the hard work, friendships made and bonds forged, the losing has to get to them at some point. I don't know which game it will be, but they are going to get one this year. Hopefully the enthusiasm and support will still be there to help them enjoy what will be a great sensation of relief, a validation of their efforts and testimony to their spirit.