GMC Football: Kressbach leads Middlesex over Spotswood

Josh Ramirez’s 45-yard interception return late in the fourth quarter produced the final margin as the Middlesex High School football team hung on for a 31-21 victory over Spotswood on Friday night.

MEDIA BLITZ: WEEK 3 FOOTBALL FRENZY

“He was there when we needed him most to ice the game,” Middlesex head coach P.J. Jankowicz said. “It was a nice play by him. A lot of guys stepped up tonight, which was good to see.”

Shea Obado’s 87-yard kickoff return helped the Chargers (0-3) close a 24-14 deficit to three points. Spotswood had a chance to tie the contest on its ensuing possession but missed a 37-yard field goal attempt wide left.

Quarterback John Kressbach finished with 124 yards from scrimmage for the Blue Jays (2-1). He completed a 61-yard scoring strike to Brad Kaplan and also rushed 13 times for 63 yards and a score.

“As he goes, we go,” Jankowicz said of Kressbach. “It was important for him to be the player we know he can be. He’s worked four years for this opportunity. I like what he brings to the table. When he’s at his best, he’s tough to stop.”

Halfback Devin Lanza carried six times for 133 yards and one touchdown for the Blue Jays. Matt Semon booted a 25-yard field goal to close out Middlesex’s scoring. Fullback Tom Rau contributed 58 rushing yards to the victory.

“He’s got a lot of pressure on him,” Jankowicz said of Lanza. “He’s sort of the heartbeat of our team. I’m very proud of him. He did a great job in the weight room in the offseason. He’s really displayed some good leadership and he’s starting to show he can put the team on his back.” 

Quarterback Nick Vincelli connected with Ed Rogers for a 40-yard scoring strike in the second quarter, helping Spotswood trim a 10-0 deficit to three points. Middlesex led 17-7 at the half. Vincelli scored on a 1-yard run in the third quarter, again cutting the gap to three points.

“Spotswood really did a good job against us,” Jankowicz said. “We just made a couple more plays. Certainly we are not satisfied, but if the kids keep taking care of the little things, we are in good shape.

“I like where we are at.”