The Rutherford Bulldogs’ dominance continued after taking down the Fair Lawn Cutters, securing another win in what has been an historic season for Rutherford. As the 5th and final game of the SBCS, Rutherford put on a clinic for the fans at Becton High School on Sunday.

Although Fair Lawn began the game with more energy and controlled much of the first quarter, the Bulldogs responded in the second with a rally that put them in the lead with seconds remaining in the half until a momentum-busting, buzzer beater three for Fair Lawn, gave the Cutters the lead going into halftime.

Coming out of the break, Rutherford shifted into a higher gear on both sides of the court, crashing the glass and converting second-chance opportunities repeatedly, while forcing turnovers that lead to fast-break scores. 

Center Matt Remias epitomized this style of play for the Bulldogs, a role he has excelled in all season as the defensive anchor of the squad.

“It’s really just energy for me…it’s my job on the team.” Remias commented after the game. Remias is putting together a phenomenal senior season for the Bulldogs averaging a double-double along with nearly three blocks per game.

Additionally, shots began to drop at a much higher frequency for the Bulldogs as they eventually pulled away in the fourth period with large contributions coming from Chris Gioia (11), Max Gestalu (10), Noah Pesantez (9), Matthew Remias (8). 

Fair Lawn kept it close for the vast majority of the game with a standout performance coming from senior Austin Peluso who fell one rebound short of a double-double with 13 points. Additionally, Jaden Douglas posted 12 points and Freshman Luis Warren contributed 10.

Rutherford, led by head coach James Parnofiello, is now 13-1 and atop the NJIC, continuing their best start in over 15 years.

Despite the loss, coach Kyle Sabella’s Cutters are still having a strong season, currently sitting at 7-3 and ranked 9th in the Big North.