Freehold Township High School made history last Wednesday, April 8, by defeating the Manalapan Braves 24-7 at home. It is their first win in the history of the program.

Sophomore Skyler Rausch was named the team’s starting quarterback in the week leading up to the season-opener against Red Bank Catholic on March 26. She went 6 of 14 for 56 passing yards and a touchdown and made a team-high seven tackles on defense. 

“It was awesome to be a part of the first win for Freehold Township Girls Flag Football,” quotes Rausch. “It was a total team effort. Everyone played their hearts out and I’m looking forward to the future of this team.”

The Patriots accounted for three touchdowns on the ground, with sophomore Shiloh Harris, senior Geovanna Pecoraro, and senior Chloe Glickman. Harris was the team’s leading rusher, with 46 yards on 6 carries.

Manalapan led 7-0 at the end of the first quarter, but Freehold Township took the lead just before halftime, where they led 12-7. In total, they scored all of their 24 points without an answer.

Senior Kaylie Fata caught the game’s only touchdown pass on either side. It came in the fourth quarter from 8 yards out, extending the lead to 18-7.

Manalapan quarterback Giuliana Alfano was intercepted four times by the Patriots’ defense. Fata had two, while BOTC contestants Leila Perez (Jr.) and Julianna Viesta (Fr.) had one each.

FTHS Flag Football returns on Wednesday, April 15, where they will host the Neptune Scarlet Fliers at 4:30 PM EST.