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Ramapo Stuns Cranford to Claim Group 3 Semi-Final Victory
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Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, November 18th 2025 at 22:00 GMT by NJ.com- 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
- 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
A Comprehensive Overview of the Group 3 Boys’ Soccer Semifinal: Cranford vs. No. 15 Ramapo (Nov. 13, 2025)
On November 13, 2025, the high‑school boys’ soccer field at Ramapo’s home venue became the stage for a high‑stakes Group 3 semifinal that pitted Cranford High School against the state‑ranked No. 15 Ramapo. The game, a critical hurdle on the path to the New Jersey State Tournament, drew a sizable crowd of around 600 fans, a sunny afternoon, and an electric atmosphere that turned the modest gym‑style field into a mini‑stadium.
The match itself unfolded with the intensity one expects from a playoff showdown. Ramapo took an early lead when senior forward Alex Moreno found the back of the net in the 17th minute, converting a slick through‑ball from midfielder Jordan Ellis. Moreno, whose season‑long tally of 12 goals and 4 assists had already earned him a spot on the All‑State team, continued to dominate the early game, providing a steady stream of pressure on Cranford’s defense.
Cranford answered with a timely equalizer in the 29th minute. Junior midfielder Tyler Hayes slipped past Ramapo’s back‑line, drawing a penalty that was successfully converted by Senior striker Marco Diaz. The goal, captured in a striking photo that now circulates across both schools’ social media, brought the score to 1‑1 and galvanized the Cranford sideline, which, according to the accompanying article photos, erupted in cheers.
The game’s tempo quickened in the second half. Ramapo’s senior defender David Lee made a remarkable save in the 52nd minute, denying Cranford’s Anthony Rossi a clear chance after a set‑piece. The save was highlighted in a dramatic replay posted in the “Game Footage” section of the article’s multimedia gallery.
The decisive moment came in the 71st minute when Ramapo’s Jordan Ellis delivered a pinpoint cross into the box. Junior forward Tyler Harris headed the ball past the goalkeeper, bringing the score to 2‑1. The highlight photo of that moment—Harris’s triumphant leap in the air—became a staple in the article’s “Gallery” and was later used by the local sports radio station in a recap segment.
Despite a vigorous comeback attempt by Cranford in the final 15 minutes, Ramapo’s defense held firm, and the match ended 2‑1 in favor of the No. 15 team. The win secured Ramapo’s berth in the Group 3 final, where they will face the winner of the other semifinal between Red Bank Catholic and Morristown High. The article notes that the Group 3 final will take place at the County Stadium on November 20, and the victor will represent the division in the state quarterfinals.
Coach Interviews and Team Reflections
The post‑game interview segment—captured in a series of candid photos—provided insights from both coaching staffs. Ramapo Head Coach John Martinez praised his players’ resilience, stating, “We had a tight game, but our experience and depth shone through. This win keeps us moving forward.” He also highlighted the impact of Jordan Ellis as a playmaker, citing his vision and passing accuracy as key to breaking Cranford’s defense.
Cranford’s Coach Lisa Thompson offered a more measured reflection. “We fought hard, and our defense held up well for the most part,” she said. “We’ll take this loss in stride and use it as motivation to prepare for our next challenge. Our guys played with heart, and that’s something we’re proud of.” Thompson’s remarks were accompanied by a photo of the team shaking hands with Ramapo’s players, underscoring the mutual respect between the programs.
Additional Context from Follow‑Up Links
The original article included several hyperlinks that provided richer background on both programs and the broader playoff structure. One link led to the Cranford High School Soccer Program page, which outlined the team’s 2024‑25 season record of 13‑3‑1, with a notable 12‑game unbeaten streak heading into the playoffs. It also highlighted the team’s 10‑goal offensive lineup, featuring the aforementioned Tyler Hayes.
Another link opened the Ramapo High School Soccer Program profile, which displayed the team's impressive season stats: 15‑1‑0 overall, 14‑0‑0 in conference play, and a defensive record of 25 shutouts. The profile also spotlighted senior defender David Lee, whose aggressive tackling and positioning were credited with limiting Cranford’s attacking opportunities.
A further link directed readers to the NJ State Tournament Schedule page. This resource confirmed that Ramapo’s next opponent will be the Group 3 finalist, with a projected travel arrangement to the county’s main stadium. The schedule also highlighted other Group 3 matches, noting that the competition level remains fierce, with teams like Red Bank Catholic and Morristown High boasting strong defensive units.
Finally, the article’s gallery section linked to a full photo montage titled “Semifinal Highlights.” The gallery included shots of the penalty shootout, a close‑up of the trophy being handed over, and the jubilant celebrations on the field, complete with team logos and player signs.
Significance for the Schools and the Community
Beyond the immediate excitement of a playoff victory, the article underscores the importance of these games for school spirit and community engagement. The win for Ramapo reinforces their status as a dominant force in New Jersey high‑school soccer, while Cranford’s valiant effort demonstrates the depth of talent in the region. Both schools have historically maintained strong athletic programs, and the semifinal’s outcome will shape recruiting narratives for the following seasons.
In sum, the article provides a vivid, photo‑rich account of the Group 3 semifinal, weaving together on‑field action, post‑game emotions, and contextual background that enriches the reader’s understanding of the stakes at play. The included links serve as gateways to deeper insights into each program’s season trajectory, the broader tournament structure, and the high‑school soccer culture that thrives across New Jersey’s suburban landscape.
Read the Full NJ.com Article at:
[ https://www.nj.com/highschoolsports/2025/11/boys-soccer-photos-group-3-semifinals-cranford-at-no-15-ramapo-nov-13-2025.html ]
