The Atlantic City High School football team captured the Central Jersey Group 4 championship on Friday night, defeating Millville 35-14.
This victory marks the program’s first sectional title since 1999, according to “reporting by Yahoo Sports.”
The Vikings entered the matchup with an 8-3 record following a season of significant growth.
Junior quarterback Marvin Burroughs played a pivotal role in the win, throwing four touchdown passes throughout the contest, as noted by “the Courier-Post.”
Atlantic City showed poise early on, converting several third and fourth down opportunities during its opening scoring drive.
Burroughs connected with Kenai Austin for a 25-yard touchdown strike on a fourth-and-17 play to establish an early lead.
The game remained competitive until Millville star Reggie Holley exited the field in the second quarter due to a shoulder injury.
Following the break, Ahmad Chambers extended the lead for Atlantic City with a 65-yard touchdown run.
Burroughs later found Austin for a second score, while Don’Taye Thompson added two late touchdown receptions to solidify the victory.
Reflecting on the team’s improved maturity compared to last year’s loss, Burroughs stated, “We just want it more.”
Head coach Keenan Wright praised his players for their patience and ability to execute the game plan effectively.
Wright explained his philosophy by stating, “I don’t have to hit driver, I can just put it in the fairway, take my 5-iron and just put it out there.”
The Vikings now prepare to face Winslow Township in the next round of the state playoffs.
Winslow Township advanced after defeating Shawnee 26-23 in the South Jersey Group 4 final.
The upcoming game serves as a rematch of an earlier season contest that Atlantic City won 36-30.
Senior defensive tackle Anas Newsome highlighted the culture of accountability established by the coaching staff.
Newsome noted of his coach, “He leads by example, he does everything with us.”