A year ago, in Kingston, Troy High defeated New Rochelle to advance to the NYS Class AA title game. Tonight, the Hugenots came to Section II country, seeking revenge. The site was Columbia High, as Section II hosted a state playoff for the first time in what seems like forever, if ever at all.
On what was easily the coldest night of the season so far, the rematch was as advertised, a game dominated by defense on both teams, a war of attrition that would be decided on the final score of the game. For coach Bob Burns, this was the first game since being elected to the Rensselaer County Legislature earlier this week, a side story that had gone underplayed in the local press.
After a scoreless first quarter, Troy struck first, as Joe Casale hit Isaiah Burdette for a 40 yard touchdown strike. Michael Fazio converted the point-after, and Troy was up, 7-0. However, barely a minute later, New Rochelle answered, as Jared Baron scampered 39 yards to tie the game. Right before the half, Troy regained the lead, as Casale connected with Dev Holmes. However, for the 2nd straight week, Holmes was flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct, this time after the touchdown was scored, and Troy led, 14-7, at the break.
After the teams played a scoreless 3rd quarter, New Rochelle tied the game on a touchdown catch by Miles Taylor. On the ensuing kickoff, Holmes injured his left ankle, and had to come out of the game, though he would return. Joey Ward, kept out of the end zone, was grinding out yardage to get Troy in position for a game winning score. However, it wouldn't be a touchdown. For the first time this season, Troy set up for a field goal, and with 7 seconds left in regulation, Fazio connected from 24 yards out. The Flying Horses, thinking the game was over, rushed out onto the field to celebrate, which cost them another 15 yard penalty.
No matter, as a desperation pass by New Rochelle fell incomplete as time expired, and Troy moves on with a 17-14 win. The Hugenots, the 3-time Section I champs, are sent packing by a Section II team for the 3rd straight year (Saratoga in 2015).
Next week, Troy leaves the comfort of Section II, and will travel to Middletown to play Newburgh Free Academy, with the winner advancing to the title game Thanksgiving weekend in Syracuse.
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