CLARK, NJ- The Arthur L. Johnson High School Crusaders varsity football team put everything they had out on the field, but in the end, came up short, losing to the Hillside High School Comets in the NJSIAA Central, Group 2 Semifinals by a final score of 19-16 Saturday night in Clark.
The Crusaders lost a fumble on the opening drive, after getting to the Hillside one-yard line before the Comets got possession. After a short drive, the Johnson defense forced Hillside to punt, but an unusual series of events took place.
The snap went high and over the head of the Hillside punter, going out of bounds for a safety, giving Johnson a 2-0 lead, the score after the first quarter. The Crusaders took the field for their next drive and took it into Hillside territory, but senior Mike Casalino came up short on a field goal, giving the football back to Hillside.
Hillside got on the board, as junior James Louis took it in from 13 yards out to give them a 6-2 lead with 4:48 left in the first quarter.
The Crusaders responded on the next drive by getting into Comets territory, coupled with a few penalties, junior Vito Galluzzo taking it in for an eight-yard rushing touchdown.
Following senior Mike Casalino’s extra point, Johnson took a 9-6 lead and that was the score heading into halftime.
Full Coverage of Johnson Varsity Football NJSIAA Central, Group 2 Semifinals Against Hillside Here
