Burke clinches playoff spot

HIGHLAND — Highland all but packed Burke Catholic’s bags to the Class B title game when it committed eight turnovers en route to a 13-6 Eagles’ win that clinched a spot in the title game that looms in three weeks. Stephen Ferrezzara’s interception derailed the Huskies’ last legitimate shot to tie the game with 3:35 remaining when he picked of a pass at the Eagles’ 25-yard line. “Our defense is tenacious,” said Ferrezzara, a sophomore. “A lot of guys stepped up and made big plays.” Burke failed to capitalize on the turnover, going three-and-out and giving the Huskies another shot. But sacks by Anthony Van Curen and Derek Willis ended all hope for the Highlanders on their homecoming. Trailing 13-6, Highland was on the verge of scoring as the Huskies had a first down at Burke’s 15-yard line. But a toss to David Baker was coughed up and recovered by Ferrezzara at 6:16. Burke fullback Phil Asaro scored the first half’s only touchdown with a 2-yard run which capped an eight-play, 50 yard drive. Early in the second half, Highland’s 6-foot-3, 280-pound Brad Serini scored his first career touchdown with a six-yard run. It was the first time the tackle had played in the backfield and his punishing run injured Eric Arsenault, who attempted to tackle him. The extra point was blocked. Will Loeb had broke the tie when he scampered in from 12-yards out. The Eagles are now 6-1 overall and in Class B. They close out their league schedule against Spackenkill on Saturday. Highland now has three league losses but are hanging on for dear life in the Class B playoff race. A loss to either Ellenville or New Paltz in the next two weeks would eliminate them. Another Red Hook or O’Neill win would also do the Huskies in. That should happen Saturday, when the Raiders host New Paltz. Marlboro also has three league losses and faces the same scenerio as the Huskies.