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SCARSDALE, N.Y. Fresh off two straight wins and an optimistic 3-2 record, the Scarsdale Raiders will face the toughest test of the season Friday when they visit Section 1 Class AA champion New Rochelle High School at Homecoming in a 7:30 p.m. start.
The rejuvenated Raiders, who pulled out a thrilling 39-36 win over Ketcham last week, can use the distraction of homecoming festivities to try for an upset over the favored Huguenots, who come off a 24-0 victory at Mahopac, but showed they are vulnerable in a 14-0 loss to John Jay two weeks ago.
Andrew Verboys, who ran for 75 yards and three scores last week, leads the Raiders offense at quarterback. Running back Anthony Cugini, who rushed for 148 yards and two touchdowns against Ketcham, carries much of the load on the ground with help from Eric Berman.
Tim Leone, Patrick Clarke and John Cappello lead the Raiders defense, which has had trouble stopping offenses consistently and has allowed 31 points per game, which will not do against New Rochelles potent offense.
The Huguenots had a misstep two weeks ago in their only loss of the season to John Jay, but recovered nicely in last weeks 24-0 over Mahopac. New Rochelle must beware of a letdown under the lights with playoff seeding at risk.
New Rochelle quarterback Khalil Edney and running backs Jonathan Forrest and Kemet McLean each scored on running plays in last weeks win. Edney has gained confidence in his ability to lead the team and New Rochelle is always prepared by longtime coach Lou DiRienzo.
The New Rochelle defense, with linemen Durrell Rice and Joe Clarke up front and a host of quick linebackers and defensive backs backing up, will be a tough test for the Raiders.
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