Woodbridge Prepares For Turkey with Bragging Rights

By Josh Cohen
11/24/04

Woodbridge -- Seniors Stefan Alexander, Jarren Smith, and Josh "Texas" Rock will have much to talk about with their families on Thanksgiving Day.  Each intercepted a Nick Allan pass during Woodbridge's 14-8 victory over cross-town rival Colonia on Wednesday night. 

Horrendous field conditions due to heavy rain limited offensive production for both teams.  But the Woodbridge defense came up big when they needed to, preventing the Patriots from advancing the ball down the field on most possessions. 

Rock's interception with less then two minutes remaining sealed a 5-5 season for the Barrons, who despite not winning a state championship, competed in every game.

"The breaks didn't go our way this year, but we had a successful season," Woodbridge head coach Brian Russo said after the game.  "It is always nice to beat Colonia to end it."

Seniors Justin "Bus" Hinds and Ken Siano will never forget their years playing for Woodbridge. 

"It was the greatest thing I ever did," Siano said.  "I love this team, and everything it stands for."

"I will always stand by Woodbridge," said Hinds, adding he expects this team to build for next year with their being such young talent. 

Led by senior offensive lineman Anthony "Meatball" Meier, the Barrons were effective on the ground all season.  Last night proved just that as Garrett Mozolic rushed for 87 yards, while Matt Mackintosh ran for 27 -- each scoring one-yard touchdowns. 

Wide receivers Shamar Graves and Jonathan Mercer each made spectacular catches throughout the season. 

"It was a tough season, but we played hard and never quit," Mercer said. 

The Barrons now hold an 8-3 Thanksgiving game record all-time against Colonia, including four straight since 2001.