Crusaders advance to playoffs following 7-0 shutout of Washingtonville

CENTRAL VALLEY — The Monroe-Woodbury Crusaders took on the undefeated Wizards of Washingtonville in a match up of two of the area's top Section 9 title contenders last Friday night, Oct. 14, at home in Central Valley.
The Crusaders' inspired defense played a perfect game and shut out the Wizards.
Although the Wizards had several long gains on pass plays, every time they got inside the Crusader Red Zone the defense rose up and came up with a big stop.
The Crusaders blocked a field goal attempt, then got a stop on a fake field goal attempt. The team also got turnovers on downs three times and forced the Wizards to punt on the rest of their opportunities.
The problem was the Crusader offense ran into a very strong Wizard defense which held them in check.
But with 10:55 left in the fourth quarter, quarterback Rich Martucci faked a hand off to Johnny Bauer. He hit a seam in the Wizards defense and 60 yards later found pay dirt for the game's only touchdown.
Kicker Matt Lutley had a strong game by consistently changing field position for the Crusaders when the offense was having a hard time moving the ball.
Before the game in a brief ceremony the Seniors on the team and their parents were given recognition with flowers and photos.
The Crusaders' 7-0 victory brings their season record to 6-1.
The Crusaders will host the Wildcats of Warwick in the opening round of the playoffs on Friday, Oct. 21, at 7 p.m.