STEVEN BASSIN/STAFF

Rumson-Fair Haven advances to state football playoff final again

 The Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School football team has secured its ninth trip to the state sectional playoff championship game in 10 years.

On the evening of Nov. 15, Rumson-Fair Haven, the defending state sectional playoff champion, defeated Timber Creek High School, 16-9, in the semifinal round of the NJSIAA Central Jersey, Group 3 sectional playoffs at Borden Stadium in Rumson.

Senior running back Peter Crowley rushed for two touchdowns to help the Bulldogs improve to 6-4 on the season. Crowley gave Rumson-Fair Haven a seven-point lead with 4:36 left to play with a 18-yard touchdown run on fourth down and inches.

The Bulldogs’ defense was stellar, holding Timber Creek to a season-low nine points. Sophomore linebacker John Lista had two strip-sacks for Rumson-Fair Haven.

“We’re glad to be back in the finals,” said Rumson-Fair Haven coach Jerry Schulte. “It’s been a nice run. Our kids are resilient. They’re used to having to fight through adversity and different challenges in front of them.”

Rumson-Fair Haven will play undefeated Wall Township High School in the sectional final on Nov. 22 in Wall.

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