The Rumson-Fair Haven football team poses with the New Jersey Group 2 state champion trophy after defeating Shabazz, 26-24, in the Group 2 state final played at SHI Stadium on the campus of Rutgers University in Piscataway, New Jersey on Wednesday, December 4, 2024. Joshua Guirguis/D2 Sports Network
PISCATAWAY - The Rumson-Fair Haven football team suffered heartbreaking losses in the Group 2 state final the past two seasons.
The saying "Third time's a charm" proved correct as the Bulldogs finally secured their first state title in a 26-24 win over Shabazz in the Group 2 state final.
Kellen Murray capped his breakout junior season in style rushing for 170 yards and three scores on 28 attempts. Owen O'Toole directed the offense under center throwing for 114 yards and running for a touchdown in eight rushing attempts.
The Bulldog defense is where the Shore Conference program shined. The Rumson-Fair Haven defense settled in as a unit after two early Shabazz scores and racked up two sacks and eight tackles for a loss. Shabazz was also held to one-for-four on 4th down conversions as well.
Rumson-Fair Haven finishes the season at a perfect 13-0 with its first state title in program history. Shabazz finishes its journey with a 10-4 record.
Comments