CLARK, NJ- The Johnson Crusaders varsity football team fell to the Governor Livingston Highlanders by a final score of 21-14, their first loss of the 2018 season. Turnovers and not capitalizing on chances cost the Crusaders, including one interception, one lost fumble and two turnover on downs proved costly and not being able to punch through on chances, which has been a force for them in previous seasons. These elements combined were not helpful on the evening as the Crusaders sustained their first setback of the year.
1.) Mistakes, Mistakes, Mistakes
Throughout the afternoon, there were mistakes that were made on the field that stalled several chances where they could have built on their lead.
The first one, facing fourth-down-and-1 at the Governor Livingston 17-yard line, Johnson attempted to sneak a run in there to try and convert to keep the ball, but were wrapped around in the backfield and turned it over on downs, a drive where they could have capitalized to add to their early lead.
The second one, sophomore quarterback Joe Greenbush, who really didn’t look all that bad, threw an interception inside Highlanders territory, just within the Highlanders 35-yard line, but the Johnson defense did get a stop, with the game tied at 7-7. It put Johnson in a bad spot, but they were able to respond with a defensive stop, forcing Governor Livingston to punt.
The biggest mistake of the game, a lost fumble in the backfield led to the Highlanders’ second touchdown, which put them ahead 13-7. The last mistake, a miscue and getting caught out of position led to the game-winning touchdown, making the game a tough one within the intense heat on the field that afternoon.
2.) Inconsistencies in Areas of the Game
At times, Johnson did struggle to gain much on offense, not a lot of big plays on the field, which hurt them at times. While it was hot outside, it did affect both teams throughout the entire first half, with Johnson senior Sebastian Iakouchevitch’s first quarter touchdown.
There were not really consistent movement of the ball, with penalties marring their performance throughout the field. Johnson would have a few good plays of gaining yards, but have it followed by a few plays where they would not get as much. To improve their game plan, they need to be able to get everybody involved and really make the most out of their chances.
Joe Greenbush struggled through the air, so hopefully the following week of practice allows for everyone to have the opportunity to get better. Iakouchevitch looked pretty good in his first game as the number one running back, carrying the ball 29 times for 182 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns, both of them being 17-yard rushing scores.
3.) Brush it Off and Prepare for the Home Opener
It’s time to look ahead to the home opener! The Johnson Crusaders return to the practice field to prepare for their home opener against Delaware Valley. There was a decent student fan section on the visitor side, so I could only imagine how this upcoming Friday will be.
Vito Galluzzo was missed in the season opener, out with an injury, but the Johnson Crusaders have an opportunity to bounce back under their lights!
