#1 Iona Prep (NY) defeats #2 Don Bosco Prep (NJ) in Thriller
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In what could be one of the most remembered games where teams from New York and New Jersey face off Iona Prep scored 22 4th quarter points to come back and defeat the #2 team and one of the most…
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Continue ReadingIn what could be one of the most remembered games where teams from New York and New Jersey face off Iona Prep scored 22 4th quarter points to come back and defeat the #2 team and one of the most storied programs in New Jersey. While it was Iona Prep’s 2nd half offense led by superstar Old Dominion commit Ajani Sheppard Ajani Sheppard 6'3" | 225 lbs | QB Iona Prep | 2023 State NY that sparked the comeback it was two late interceptions by Terrance Walden and Adande Nartey Adande Nartey 5'10" | 175 lbs | DB Suffield Academy | 2025 NewE that secured the win for Iona Prep.
Don Bosco Prep was able to build a 28-20 lead at halftime after a fantastic first half where we saw running back Logan Bush run for two touchdowns. Bush ended the game with over 200 yards rushing on only 16 carries proving why he is one of the best backs in New York. On the other sideline, Colin O’Garro Colin O’Garro 6'1" | 205 lbs | RB Iona Prep | 2023 State NY is continuing his dominant season for Iona Prep and had two long touchdown runs of 50 and 46 yards.
Don Bosco Prep also Delaware Commit Nick Minicucci had a solid day and a great first three and a half quarters. Up until the 5-minute mark in the 4th Minicucci had over 200 yards passing, over 70 rushing yards, and 3 total TDs. However, things became difficult for Minicucci late in the 4th quarter when the Iona Prep secondary left him no open receivers to throw to. The two late interceptions by Iona Prep were on throws that were made with desperation by Minicucci as he was being chased down by pass rushers.
On the other hand, Ajani Sheppard Ajani Sheppard 6'3" | 225 lbs | QB Iona Prep | 2023 State NY was struggling quite a bit at some points. Just like the Iona Prep secondary clamped down in crunch time it seemed like the Don Bosco secondary was ready from the first snap. Sheppard rarely had open receivers down the field and ended up running for more yards than he threw for. While Sheppard is known as a dual-threat player he really showed that he is a level above everyone else when he is running the back. Sheppard is so physical he can bounce off tackles and he has such a knack for making people miss. Even on an off day, Sheppard showed why he is the #1 player in the state. Iona Prep scored the game-winning touchdown on a broken pass play where Sheppard left the pocket and ended up running 44 yards through the Don Bosco defense for the touchdown.
The final four minutes did not commence without plenty of drama. Two turnovers and a 44 yards touchdown were the highlights you will see but two holding penalties and a pass interference call all on Iona Prep seriously threatened their ability to win the game. While their comeback to tie the game was incredible it seemed, for a moment, that the moment was too big for Iona Prep and they were shooting themselves in the foot. However, there is a reason why Ajani Sheppard Ajani Sheppard 6'3" | 225 lbs | QB Iona Prep | 2023 State NY is the best player in New York state and he showed that. Despite the deficit at the half, late penalties, and no open receivers Sheppard still was able to muster his team to victory.
Iona Prep moved to 2-1 on the season with their lone loss coming to Archbishop Hoban one of the best programs in Ohio. Next week the Iona Prep Gaels face Christ the King in their second league game of the season.
Don Bosco Prep moved to 2-2 on the season and their season will not get any easier as they face Bergen Catholic the #1 team in New Jersey next week.