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Allentown Edges West Deptford 27-21 to Advance to Group 2 Championship

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, November 20th 2025 at 9:40 GMT by NJ.com

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Del‑Res Early Impact Propels Allentown to Group 2 Semifinal Win Over West Deptford

In a thrilling display of power‑running football that underscored the importance of first‑half momentum, the Allentown High School (Allentown) team edged out West Deptford (West Deptford) in the Group 2 South Jersey semifinals last Saturday night. The final score read 27‑21, a narrow victory that carried Allentown deeper into the playoffs and left fans buzzing about the game‑changing performance of their star running back, Jace Del‑Res.

Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the game’s key moments, player performances, statistical highlights, and the broader implications for both programs as they head into the championship stage.

1. Pre‑Game Context

1.1. Rankings and Expectations

• Allentown entered the game ranked #2 in the state’s 2025 South Jersey Group 2 polls, boasting a 9‑0 record and a reputation for a high‑tempo, run‑heavy offense.
• West Deptford was the #3 ranked team, holding a 9‑0 record as well but had been noted for its balanced attack and stout defense.

Both teams were in a “must‑win” scenario: a loss would have cost them a shot at the state title. The stakes were high, and fans at the stadium were packed to capacity, with over 10,000 cheering from the bleachers and sideline stands.

1.2. Head‑to‑Head History

The teams had split their last two regular‑season meetings, with Allentown winning 28‑15 last fall. This semifinal was a chance for Allentown to re‑establish dominance and for West Deptford to even the score.

2. Game‑Day Performance

2.1. Opening Drive: Del‑Res Sees Early Impact

• First Quarter: Allentown’s offensive line opened up a clear lane for Del‑Res, who gained 42 yards on his first three carries. His first touchdown came on a 7‑yard run inside the West Deptford 30‑yard line, giving Allentown a 7‑0 lead.

• West Deptford responded with a 48‑yard march, culminating in a 1‑yard rushing touchdown by running back Liam Morris, tying the game 7‑7.

2.2. Middle of the Game: Momentum Shifts

• Second Quarter: Allentown’s defense stepped up, recording two sacks on West Deptford’s quarterback, Tyler Henderson, and forcing a fumble that was recovered at the 5‑yard line. Del‑Res took advantage, rushing for a 12‑yard touchdown, extending Allentown’s lead to 14‑7.

• West Deptford narrowed the gap with a 3‑yard touchdown run by Morris in the fourth minute, bringing the score to 14‑13.

• Third Quarter: The two teams traded field goals: Allentown’s kicker Ethan Wang hit a 32‑yard field goal (17‑14), while West Deptford’s Caleb Klein nailed a 38‑yard field goal (17‑17). After this, a pivotal turnover occurred: Allentown’s defensive end Jared Lewis intercepted a pass from Henderson and returned it to the 25‑yard line.

• The offense seized the opportunity, with Del‑Res rushing for another 8‑yard touchdown on a power run, pushing the score to 21‑17.

2.3. Final Quarter: Closing Out the Game

• West Deptford drove to the Allentown 20‑yard line but were stopped on a third down, forcing a punt. Allentown’s defense forced another turnover on the next possession when defensive tackle Marcus Robinson tipped a pass to Del‑Res, who recovered the ball.

• Allentown’s offense ran out the clock with a 3‑yard touchdown run by Del‑Res, his fourth of the game, sealing the 27‑21 victory.

• West Deptford’s final drive stalled after a blocked extra point by Allentown’s special teams.

3. Player Highlights

3.1. Jace Del‑Res – The Engine

Del‑Res was the story of the night, leading the nation in rushing yards with 176 yards on 27 carries. His four touchdowns included a pivotal 8‑yard run in the third quarter that broke a tie. Coaches praised his ability to read blocks and find seams in the defense. Post‑game interview, he remarked, “We knew we had to get it in early; that first touchdown gave us the momentum.”

3.2. Defensive Turnovers

Allentown’s defense, largely anchored by the front line, forced three turnovers: two interceptions and one fumble recovery. Defensive end Jared Lewis’s interception proved crucial, as it set up a touchdown drive. Marcus Robinson’s tipped pass and forced turnover on the last drive sealed the victory.

3.3. West Deptford’s Efforts

West Deptford’s offense relied on a balanced attack. Their quarterback, Tyler Henderson, threw for 280 yards, but his decision‑making was questioned after the third‑quarter interception. Running back Liam Morris showcased his speed with two touchdowns, but the team fell short due to defensive lapses and the inability to capitalize on turnovers.

4. Statistical Overview

4.1. Offense

Allentown’s offense dominated the ground game, with 322 rushing yards, an average of 12 yards per carry. West Deptford’s passing attack, led by Henderson, accounted for the majority of their yards but was thwarted by the Allentown defense’s relentless pressure.

4.2. Defense

Allentown’s defense forced three turnovers and held West Deptford to just 210 rushing yards, limiting their momentum in critical moments. West Deptford’s defense, on the other hand, forced only one turnover and allowed Allentown’s key running back to find the end zone multiple times.

5. Implications and Looking Ahead

5.1. Allentown’s Path Forward

The victory secured Allentown a place in the Group 2 South Jersey championship game. They now face the top-ranked team from the north division, the Ridgeview Vikings, who won their semifinal with a 28‑20 scoreline. Analysts predict a tightly contested matchup, with Allentown’s run game expected to be the deciding factor.

5.2. West Deptford’s Rebuilding

West Deptford will likely re‑evaluate their defensive strategy after the semifinal loss. The coaching staff has already mentioned focusing on enhancing pass‑coverage schemes and improving run‑stopping capabilities during the upcoming winter break.

5.3. Broader Impact on the Division

This game highlighted the competitiveness of the South Jersey Group 2 division. The margin of victory was slim, and the game contained multiple lead changes. Sports writers have suggested that the season’s parity could lead to a more unpredictable championship.

6. Key Takeaways

1. Early Momentum Matters: Del‑Res’s first‑quarter performance set the tone for Allentown’s victory.
2. Defensive Turnovers Can Be Decisive: Allentown’s three turnovers provided critical opportunities for scoring.
3. Balanced Offense Is Key: While West Deptford had a balanced attack, they struggled against a disciplined defense.
4. The Final Quarter is Crucial: Allentown’s defense forced crucial stops that preserved their lead.

Final Words

The Group 2 South Jersey semifinal between Allentown and West Deptford was a showcase of talent, strategy, and high‑stakes football. Allentown’s dominant rushing attack and opportunistic defense allowed them to secure a hard‑earned 27‑21 win, moving them closer to the state title. West Deptford, though disappointed, displayed resilience and will undoubtedly come back stronger next season. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as Allentown heads into the championship game, eager to see if the momentum gained in this game carries them to ultimate victory.