After a 2-0 start, the Pirates traveled to Oradell, New Jersey, to face the defending state champions, Bergen Catholic Crusaders. Last year, SHP vs. Bergen Catholic was one of the best high school football games of the 2021 season, with four lead changes in the 4th quarter.  

Bergen Catholic came out perfect. Their defense forced an interception on the Prep’s first drive and capitalized with a goal-line score. Bergen dominated in the first quarter, resulting in a 21-0 lead after the first. The Pirates crawled back after Liam Londergan ’24 found Julius Vicari ’24 for a 22-yard gain. Next, on 3 and 7, Londergan scrambled out of the pocket and ran into the end zone, putting The Prep on the board. However, the Crusaders marched down the field and scored at the end of the half. Crusaders led 28-7.

In the second half, Bergen struggled offensively, only scoring seven points. However, their defense was stellar. James Dunneman found Brody Davis for a touchdown late in the 4th quarter. The Prep lost their first on the season 35-14.  

Next week is homecoming for Seton Hall as they face Irvington, and Bergen Catholic faces their rival Don Bosco Prep.