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The Ghosts finish season with a winning record as playoffs begin next week

PATERSON – The Eastside Football Ghosts spoiled homecoming for the Passaic County Technical Institute Bulldogs with a 7-6 victory on Thursday, defeating a team that was ranked #5 among northern New Jersey public schools.

Eastside Quarterback Carnell Goodwin’s pass connected with Halfback Samar Harrison in the end zone for a Ghosts touchdown in the second quarter followed by Dondre Dookie’s extra point, answering the Bulldog’s touchdown and missed extra point in the first quarter.

But in the end, it was the Ghosts' defense led by Defense Coordinator Lindsey “Coach K” Jacobs that dominated the game, keeping the Bulldogs scoreless for three quarters. Linebackers Samar Harrison and Frank Ventura each had 10 tackles. Strong Safety Jahiem Best had nine tackles, and Defensive Lineman Sonny Viera had five tackles, a sack, and a forced fumble. Carnell Goodwin, playing defensive back, made four tackles and recovered a fumble. Defensive End Nyreek Clyburn made four tackles and a sack. Defensive Lineman Taiwan Davis and Defensive Back Ibrahim Malaki each had three tackles, and Defensive End Nehemiah Green made a sack.   

The Ghosts’ win over PCTI followed their October 1 win over the #1 ranked Ridgewood Maroons and could potentially bolster their standings as the playoffs begin next week. Just how much Eastside Football will benefit from last night’s win will be determined by the rest of the games this weekend.

Last year, Head Coach James Magazine brought the Ghosts to the NJSIAA North 1 Sectional Championship after the team had not made a postseason appearance since 2013.

Superintendent of Schools Eileen Shafer congratulated Coach Magazine, Coach K Jacobs, Eastside Athletic Supervisor T.J. Hill, and the entire Eastside Ghosts Football team on their 5-3 regular season record – the team’s fourth consecutive winning season.

“Eastside Football has become synonymous with sportsmanship and character, and that has instilled pride in everyone at Paterson Public Schools,” Shafer said. “I want to congratulate everyone who works and supports Eastside Football and wish the team all the best of luck in the upcoming playoffs.”

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