Masuk Free Press

Rivalries are always fun, except when you’re on the losing end. That is how the Masuk student section felt tonight, after seeing a final score that represented what most would call the age-old defeat. The final score of 35-18 in Newtown’s favor forced Masuk into a two game skid for the worse. 

 “Rivalry games are big, they bring a lot of passion and energy, just makes it more exciting for the fans and the team,” said Masuk Senior Nicholas Fox

The game started off with Newtown making a quick strike upping the score to 7-0. That was only the beginning of Masuk’s struggles, as they had not found their groove just yet. This game was also freshman quarterback Cole Henderson’s first game as a starter, replacing an injured Aaron Champagne. Masuk’s turbulence in the first quarter reflected the rest of the game, as they struggled to hit their stride the whole night. Giving credit to Newtown, they played a well and complete game, minimizing mistakes and capitalizing on Masuk’s. While there was no shortage of effort on Masuk’s part, things could have been done better, and in hindsight, it is important to not look for your next opportunity at the kill, but rather be positive and learn from the events that transpired.

“I’ve always coached with a positive mindset,” stated Masuk head coach Steve Christy pregame.

Violence was also a catalyst going into tonight for Coach Christy before kickoff: 

“Right now I think we have to play violent, that’s the word of the week, play violent.”

The second quarter began with another Newtown touchdown, increasing Masuk’s point deficit by 14. Masuk then made an exciting play. They had forced a three and out, and Newtown was lining to punt. Suddenly, the punter was blocked, and a Panther ran it back for six points, igniting the entire student section. Newtown then returned the favor later in the quarter, blocking one of Masuk’s kicks, and while they didn’t return it all the way back for a touchdown from special teams, a couple plays later Newtown found their third touchdown of the night, increasing the score to 21-6 before halftime.

If you know sports, you know what comebacks are. Thinking of the most iconic ones can bring some hope to the deficit you’re facing. But, comebacks are really hard to come by, especially when you are down by this much. Masuk’s hope was squashed, as Newtown scored twice more throughout the second half, making the score a whopping 35-6. Masuk found a couple late touchdowns, inflating their final score. As the clock winded down, Newtown broke the wishbone, and they sure got a wish that will leave a taste comparable to a classic Thanksgiving feast, beating Masuk 35-18. As for Masuk, their taste may be more of a raw turkey for a while, but we do hope that some good food and relaxation gets both teams ready for playoffs in the coming week. Masuk has now lost two in a row, as Newtown improves their record once more. It’s safe to say that rivalry brings a load of energy and passion, but this time around Newtown was a nuisance to Monroe’s Thanksgiving.