The Hillsborough Raiders football team held its Senior Night Monday Oct. 12 against the Watchung-Hills Warriors. The seniors were excited to celebrate all of their hard work over the past few years and play together for one of the last times.

Despite their efforts and enthusiasm, the Raiders were unable to beat the Warriors. The Raiders fell 16-13 after a strong first half against the Warriors. Although it is still the beginning of the season, this was a tough loss for the athletes on their Senior Night.

Junior Thomas Amanakwaa scored both of Hillsborough’s touchdowns with passes from junior quarterback Jay Mazuera. Amanakwaa was able to put the Raiders on the scoreboard early in the first quarter and scored the Raiders’ final touchdown in the fourth with another pass from Mazuera. Amanakwaa also tallied92 yards on five catches throughout the game.

Senior Troy Kennedy got one interception early in the first quarter leading the Raiders defensively. Kennedy also caught a ten-yard aerial strike from Mazuera. Mazuera finished passing for 102 yards on 13 attempts.

Juniors Andrew Santa Barbara and Amanakwaa carried the team in rushing during the game. Santa Barbara rushed 10 yards in three attempts while Amanakwaa rushed 11 yards in three attempts. Junior Tyler Michinard totaled two and a half sacks throughout the game and junior Will Dixon had two sacks helping out the Raiders’ defense.

Although the outcome wasn’t what the team or fans were hoping for, it was a hard-fought match for the Raiders. On Friday, Oct. 16 Hillsborough looks to come out strong for their first away game of the season against Phillipsburg. Last season, the Raiders took a tough loss to Phillipsburg so the boys are ready to avenge themselves with a hard-earned win.