URGENT UPDATE: Ridgewood High School clinched a dramatic 1-0 victory against Don Bosco Prep in the quarterfinals of the Bergen County Tournament on October 18, 2023. Coach Aidan McCluskey celebrated the win with palpable excitement, rallying the Maroon supporters immediately after the final whistle.
The match took a challenging turn early on when Ridgewood’s captain, Dylan Solano Quesada, suffered a knee injury just three minutes into the game, leaving the team to fight back without one of their key players. This setback only added to the significance of the win, showcasing the resilience of a team with 10 new starters.
“Tonight wasn’t pretty, but we’ve had 10 new starters,” McCluskey stated postgame. “What we’re doing is pretty incredible, and it’s really down to these guys. It’s about heart and character.”
With Ian Phelps stepping in as goalkeeper for the injured Chase Yannuzzi, the Maroons held strong against a fierce opponent. McCluskey expressed confidence in both goalkeepers, stating, “There’s really no difference” between them, emphasizing the depth of the Ridgewood squad.
The only goal of the match came from Caden Ferrara, who capitalized on a long throw-in—a tactic McCluskey typically dislikes but acknowledged as a necessity in adapting to the game. “We won and scored on a long throw, and I despise the long throw,” he said, highlighting the team’s ability to overcome challenges.
The match was marked by intense physicality, particularly in the second half, as both teams battled aggressively for control. This resilient performance sets Ridgewood up for a crucial semifinal clash against Bergen Catholic, a team they have faced closely in prior matchups.
“You can see over the years how we’re building it from the bottom up,” McCluskey noted, reflecting on the team’s development and the potential to reach the finals for the first time since 2022. With two close losses to Bergen Catholic in recent encounters, the stakes are high for the Maroons.
This victory not only boosts Ridgewood’s momentum but also exemplifies the team’s dedication and growth amid adversity. Fans and supporters will be eagerly watching as the Maroons aim for another statement win in the semifinals.
