TOMS RIVER, NJ – A dramatic finish under the Friday night lights saw junior receiver Cole Garrison lead Toms River North to a 21-20 comeback victory over Jackson Township in Shore Conference A South action.
With just two minutes left to play, Garrison broke through the defense for a 13-yard touchdown that put the Mariners ahead for good.
Moments later, he sealed the win on the defensive side, intercepting a pass during Jackson’s final possession to stop a potential game-winning drive.
Mariners rally behind Garrison’s all-around effort
The game remained tight throughout, with both teams trading scores in the second half after a slow offensive start. Garrison’s clutch playmaking turned the tide when it mattered most, helping Toms River North overcome a one-point deficit in the closing minutes.
Toms River North improved to 3-4 overall and 1-2 in division play, while Jackson Township dropped to 2-5 and 1-2.
Key performance fuels confidence heading into stretch run
For Toms River North, the victory marked a much-needed boost after several narrow losses earlier in the season. The Mariners’ defense held firm late, and Garrison’s interception ensured Jackson never got another chance to respond.
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Head coach Dave Oizerowitz praised his team’s resilience after the game, saying the win showed “the kind of fight we’ve been looking for all season.”
Toms River North will look to carry that momentum into next week’s matchup, while Jackson Township returns home searching for answers after letting a road win slip away.