In what promises to be a historic clash, the 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series continues as the Cherry Hill West Lions prepare to face off against their arch-rivals, the Cherry Hill East Cougars, at the Cherry Hill High School West Football Stadium on October 13, 2023.
With 54 meetings between these fierce opponents since their inaugural game in 1969, the rivalry has been intense, and the Cougars have held the upper hand with a 31-23 advantage in the all-time series. However, the Lions have tasted victory in their last encounter, a resounding 54-13 triumph that showcased the Lions’ dominance on the ground, led by the spectacular performance of senior Gary Rowe, who carved through the Cougars’ defense with an astounding 201 rushing yards and three total touchdowns.
Speaking about the upcoming rivalry game, Rick Ford, the Founder and CEO of the Great American Rivalry Series, remarked, “The Cherry Hill West vs. Cherry Hill East matchup exemplifies the essence of high school football rivalries. These two teams have a storied history, and ‘The Boot’ trophy adds an extra layer of intensity to an already passionate contest.”
As the Cherry Hill West Football Stadium prepares to welcome 3,000 fervent fans, the atmosphere is electric with anticipation. The rivalry extends beyond mere statistics; it is a clash of pride and tradition, with each team eager to etch their name in the annals of history.
Cherry Hill West Lions are determined to continue their winning streak and narrow the gap in the series, while the Cherry Hill East Cougars seek redemption and are committed to retaining their supremacy over their cross-town rivals.
Tonight, “The Boot” will be up for grabs, and both teams will leave no stone unturned in their quest for glory. The gridiron battle will be fierce, the plays will be extraordinary, and the emotions will run high as the athletes pour their heart and soul into each down.
Get ready for a captivating Friday night as Cherry Hill West and Cherry Hill East collide in the Great American Rivalry Series’ milestone 20th season. This one is destined to be an epic showdown for the ages.
We Know Friday Nights!
MVP
SCHOLAR ATHLETES
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Cherry Hill West
Cherry Hill East
GAME SUMMARY
In the re-scheduled Cherry Hills East v West game in New Jersey tonight, the Cougars ran the opening kick-off back for an explosive early lead. Sideline warning moves the kick off back. West found themselves with the ball on the Cougar 45 yd line. A huge run by West gave them good field position on the 23 yd line. On 3rd and 10, a face mask penalty on East gives the Lions an automatic first down. The Lions answered back with a hand off up the middle and its 7-7 in the first with 8:26 left. On 3rd and 8 and the West defense stepped up big time and stopped the run in the back field, causing East to punt. The Lions drove it to the end zone on 4th and goal to give West the lead 14-7 with 7:57 left in the 2nd quarter. The West Lions knee the ball to take a 14-7 lead going into half time. It has been a slow 3rd quarter as the defenses have had plenty of stops. Still 14-7 Lions leads with 2:48 in the 3rd! In a slow 3rd quarter the defense took the stage with huge stops on both sides. With 2:48 in the 3rd the Lions were still leading 14-7. A huge 42 yard run for #42 on the Cougars with 1 minute left in the 3rd tied game 14-14. With 5:50 left in the game, a huge run by #7 gives the Lions a 21-14 lead! After driving down the field, a one handed grab by #3 ties the game. 21-21 with 39 seconds left and the game went into overtime! In the first OT, neither team scored. East had a 4th and 3 and the West defense stepped up and stopped the QB 1 yard short. In the second overtime, East started with the ball and scored on a screen pass. With the extra point, they led 28-21. A huge catch by #7 gives West the ball on the 1 yard line. A QB sneak by #5 puts them down 28-27. They go for 2 and another QB keeper is good for a 29-28 win!
