Homecoming. One of the most anticipated weekends of the entire school year has passed, and it did not disappoint. It was a two day affair that started with the football game on Friday and ended with the beloved Homecoming Dance Saturday.

The weekend began on Oct. 23 with the Raiders facing off against this year’s opponent, the Elizabeth Minutemen, who proved to be a very tough opponent that gave the team a very challenging fight.

Elizabeth was 4-2 coming into the game and they have had a phenomenal year. The Minutemen notched wins over Franklin, Watchung, Hunterdon Central, and Union, heading into the Homecoming tilt against our Raiders.

Elizabeth looked to improve their winning ways, but the Raiders were also very motivated for this game. Hillsborough’s strong cast of senior members certainly wanted to impress on Homecoming weekend.

Just as the players were excited for the game, the students were equally amped. The Homecoming game is always one of the most attended games of the year, as students from all grades and even former students rep their favorite team. It became a sea of the same shirt with everyone screaming their loudest.

The fans packed the bleachers and had the highest attendance total of the entire year. They didn’t fit in their usual section and actually spilled over into the neighboring parents’ section.

Despite everything, the Raiders suffered a heartbreaking overtime loss 28-21. It was a highly competitive game, with the sides being very evenly matched. It came right down to the wire, but the Raiders just could not bring out a victory. Senior Ryan Melillo had a fantastic game, rushing for over 100 yards and scoring a touchdown while senior receiver Dillon Zimmerman also contributed a touchdown.

This put their record to 2-5 on the year, but the team finished the year strong with two straight victories to finish at 4-6. This game was one of the best, most memorable games of the year, and it set the tone for the dance the following day.