Trojans seeking top of the heap

One game into Bridgewater-Raynham's league schedule, the Trojans' season appeared to be over.

After losing to Marshfield to open Old Colony League play Oct. 30, the Trojans figured their chances at surviving beyond Thanksgiving were as good as a turkey's. With only four teams in the league, Marshfield seemed a safe bet to garner its playoff berth.

"As a team," said Bridgewater-Raynham coach Dan Buron, "we had to come together. Our chances looked slim. But then Taunton did us a favor."

Red-hot Taunton's early Christmas gift to Bridgewater-Raynham was an upset of Marshfield, effectively reopening the OCL race. Bridgewater took advantage, beating Taunton the following week to leave all three teams with one loss.

Bridgewater-Raynham won the league title on tiebreakers to advance to face No. 5 Brockton tonight at 7 in the Division 1 playoffs at New Bedford.

"The Taunton game was when we really came together," said Buron of the Nov. 18 game that was delayed four days by snow. "That week and a half was the most focused I'd seen our team all year. We played our best game, and the kids are really excited about going to the postseason."

The uphill climb doesn't level off for the Trojans, who must now contend with a Brockton team that is capable of physically dominating any opponent. Facing a powerful offensive line and tailback Richard Johnson sitting 6 yards deep waiting to break a long run, the Bridgewater-Raynham defense is instead staring at a potential avalanche.

"They're big and fast and strong," said Buron of Brockton (9-2). "They're strong at every position. We'll definitely have our hands full. We'll have to control the ball, but that's a tall task against that defense."

Led by linebacker Sam Besong and defensive end Jason Vega, Brockton covers ground quickly, especially in the running game. Bridgewater-Raynham will try to ride junior tailback Kevin Moynihan to the first-down marker.

"He's been injured somewhat the last few weeks," said Buron, "but he'll be fully healthy for [tonight]. He's been our best running back all year and we expect him to play well."

Also coming on strong has been quarterback Greg Karsner, whose improved play coincided with the team's late-season resurgence.

"Greg is the other kid who's played well down the stretch," said Buron. "He's had a nice little run for himself, now once he got settled in. We're just hoping for one more good game from him, at least."

Karsner's counterpart, Jesse Resende, has also been playing well of late. More of a threat to run, Resende has infused the smashmouth Boxers offense with a playmaking ability from the quarterback position.

"[Resende] does it all right now," said Buron. "He's improved as the season has gone along, to the point where you have to be aware of him and plan for defending him."

After dropping their league opener, Bridgewater-Raynham (7-2) wasn't planning on defending anyone in the playoffs. Now with the top of the mountain in sight, the Trojans have to like their chances.