Glen Rock football’s season ended on a deflating note under the bright lights of MetLife stadium as Mahwah defeated Glen Rock 38-13 on Dec. 4.

The game started as a defensive battle as each team punted on its respective first drives. After a fumbled snap gave Mahwah excellent field position, Mahwah running back  Zayjay Colon-Carrero found the end zone on a three yard run and put Mahwah out in front 7-0.

As the second quarter began Mahwah began to separate itself as it took a lead 14-0 with nine minutes remaining in the first half.

Glen Rock’s defense began to show promise as it held Mahwah to a field goal on its next drive and trailed 17-0.

At the second half, it was clear Glen Rock was determined to get back within reach despite an early second half score by Mahwah.

Glen Rock capitalized on a Mahwah fumble and Schlett found his All-Bergen County second team wide receiver, Tommy Pulzello for a 21-yard score.

As the fourth quarter began Glen Rock tacked on another score, this time Schlett scored on a quarterback run, bringing Glen Rock closer at a score of 31-13.

Mahwah was able to run the clock out for much of the fourth quarter and would seal the victory and its first State Sectional title since 1981.

The story goes beyond what happened on the field as much of the town Glen Rock embraced the opportunity its football team gave them.

“The whole day was an experience,” Senior Adam Kane said. “We treated it like an NFL game, tailgating and getting to the game really early.”

The parents of Glen Rock also embraced the “MetLife Experience” as an estimated 3,000 fans packed the seats of MetLife Stadium.

Glen Rock finished the season with a record of 8-3, and had five players receive All-County honors.

Quarterback Matt Schlett was the only junior on the Panthers to make an All-County team as he made the third team for his play through the air and on the ground.

Senior Lineman Jeremy Lipsky and Mike O’Hagan each made the All-Bergen County third team.

O’Hagan is looking forward to continuing his play in college and his received interest from several schools, including Kings College and Susquehanna University.

Senior Wide Receiver, Tommy Pulzello, made the All-County second team after racking up 545 yards through the air including four scores. Pulzello will be playing lacrosse next year at Siena College.

Senior Guard, Matthew Lange, made the All-County first team, beating out those from Parochial Schools such as Don Bosco and Bergan Catholic. Lange will be playing baseball next year at Drew University.