Sept. 13, 7:00 P.M.– Hillsborough vs. Bridgewater-Raritan, perhaps the most anticipated football game of the year, did not disappoint fans from either school. There were big plays all night, and it kept fans on the edge of their seats.

The Raiders defeated the Panthers 13-12 in a hard fought game. The Raiders won last year’s match up, however, the Panthers previously won three consecutive games from 2015-2018.

“The rivalry is really historic and goes back a long time,” senior Jon Seaton said. “Every year the game is competitive, and we’re neighboring towns so we all know each other. They don’t like us, and we don’t like them so it creates for an intense game every year.”

Senior quarterback Tom Ramsey threw for 78 yards and one touchdown, while also tallying 26 yards on the ground. Junior Sean Levonaitis had a big day on the grid iron piling up 193 rushing yards to go along with one touchdown.

Similar to last week, the defense played a huge role in the win. Senior Tim Franks led the way recording 10 tackles and one sack. Senior Matthew Michinard, Levonaitis, and sophomores Salvatore Volpe and Thomas Amankwaa also played a huge role in stopping the Panthers.

Despite having great defensive efforts all game long, one play in the fourth quarter proved to be the difference maker. Midway through the fourth quarter, the Panthers were within the Raiders’ 10-yard line threatening to score. On third down, Bridgewater senior quarterback Alex Fromberg dropped back and threw a solid ball. The receiver could not catch the ball, as it bobbled off of his face mask.

Senior Thomas Schultz was there to pick it off in the air, and ultimately seal the game for the Raiders.

“I was fortunate enough to be able to make a play on the ball and help change the momentum of the game,” Schultz said. “However, this was a team effort and a win I’ll never forget.”

The Raiders hope to keep rolling and improve to 3-0 as they take on the Franklin Warriors on Sept. 20. Kickoff is slated for 7:00 op.m. at the Home of the Raiders.