Football Recap: Middletown North's Win Ends Three-Game Losing Streak on the Road

It can be hard to translate regular season success to the playoffs, but Middletown North had no problem doing just that on Friday. They managed a 20-14 win over the Manalapan Braves. This was payback for the Lions, who suffered a 14-3 defeat the last time these two teams met.

Matthew Belenko

Rushing Touchdowns

09/05/25 @ Howell	3
11/07/25 @ Manalapan	2
10/31/25 vs Middletown South	2
10/24/25 @ Holmdel	2
09/12/25 vs Marlboro	2
+ 3 more games

Matthew Belenko was his usual excellent self, rushing for 97 yards and two TDs. He has become a key player for Middletown North: the team is 4-1 when he posts at least two rushing touchdowns, but 1-3 otherwise. Jack Viola did his part to keep the secondary busy, picking up 87 receiving yards.

Middletown North's victory ended a three-game drought on the road and puts them at 5-4. As for Manalapan, their loss dropped their record down to 7-4.

Looking ahead, Middletown North will venture away from home to face off against Brick Memorial at 6:00 p.m. on Friday. The Lions will need to watch out since the Mustangs have now posted at least 31 points in their last three contests. Manalapan does not have any more games scheduled as of now.