Tough loss puts Barrons in must-win situation
Must beat South Brunswick to keep playoff hopes alive
BY MIKE McDONALD
Staff Writer

The Woodbridge High School football team (3-4) needed to beat both J.P. Stevens High School and Old Bridge High School in back-to-back weeks to put themselves in good shape for a state playoff berth.

Although the Barrons were able to beat J.P. Stevens, they were unable to seal the deal against Old Bridge High School this past Friday.

Woodbridge beat J.P. Stevens by the final score of 20-13, as running back Garret Mozolic broke the career record for rushing yardage and ended his high school playing career all in one game. Mozolic was the key reason for Woodbridge winning the game, rushing for 270 yards and a touchdown, catching a touchdown pass, intercepting a pass, and forcing a fumble, all in one day's work. It was in the final minute that his high school career came to an end when the senior twisted his left knee, tearing his ACL.

Woodbridge head coach Brian Russo never made any attempt to hide his pleasure of coaching such a gifted athlete.

"Garret is a great athlete. He is a terrific kid," said Russo.

SCOTT PILLING staff Woodbridge's Anthony Viola finds some running room during the Barrons' home loss to Old Bridge on Friday night.

Woodbridge had to play Old Bridge this past Friday without Mozolic, and the team lost by the final score of 20-13.

"It was a big loss. We had a fumble and a couple of interceptions. It is tough to win with so many turnovers," said Russo.

On a positive note, Woodbridge was able to insert senior Gino Abbate, who finished the game with 124 yards on just 21 carries.

"The offensive line has played great for us all year. Gino had a great game and has given us confidence that we can get it done offensively," told Russo.

As easy at it would be to blame the loss on Mozolic's absence, or the poor field conditions due to rain the day before, Russo refused to do so.

"We have a team that has the ability to play with any team. We need kids to step up. All my kids have given me a great effort all year; we just need to cut down on the turnovers," said Russo. "We have made some turnovers that have killed us."

Despite the difficult loss, Russo is not any less confident that his team can get it done against South Brunswick High School.

"We have a good team. Our kids work hard and they know what they have to do," said Russo.

Woodbridge has to beat South Brunswick High School this coming Friday to keep their playoff chances alive.

Russo, who is the consummate motivator, is not rattled by the loss against Old Bridge, or the loss of his starting running back. He won't let his team miss a beat, either.

"We can't hang our heads. We still must play as a team and get a much-needed win. We have what it takes. The kids are working hard and have been putting forward their best efforts," said Russo.

Woodbridge has great character and will. This coming Friday, all will be put to the test in what can be characterized a must-win for Woodbridge.

Russo has his players ready and rearing to go. More importantly he believes his players are ready and up for the task.

"We know what we have to do," said Russo.