On Senior Night, Madison Rips Rival Chatham

The Madison High School boys basketball team celebrated Senior Night Monday by recognizing 11 Dodgers and then erupted for 15 points in the second quarter en route to a 38-28 win over rival Chatham.

IN SHORT

Chatham had beated Madison in two previous meetings this season, but not on senior night. The Dodgers took it to Chatham in the second period, scoring 15 points while holding the the Cougars to only two points from the free-throw line.

A pair of Nick Evangelista 3-pointers and Justin Goodwin's four points helped the Dodgers open up a 12-point advantage. Madison kept the Cougars at bay, stopping a rally in the fourth quarter that generated only 10 points, including two points each from Colin Brown, Joe Timmes and four from Scott Baker.

The second-seeded Dodgers appear ready for their North Jersey Section 2, Group 2 state playoff game next Tuesday against West Essex at home.

"We are excited," coach Billy Libera said. "We got the second seed, but we know we are going to have to play well to win. We got a couple home games and we like that opportunity. But it is single elimination, so previous accomplishments don't mean anything. You have to accomplish it that night."

DODGER OF THE GAME

Justin Goodwin -Goodwin had eight points from the floor to lead all scorers.

COACH'S TAKE

"It wasn't a beauty contest, but it is one in the right column. We lost to them twice before and we knew it was going to be tough.  It is so close every time we play these guys. We were lucky to get the scoring spurt tonight in the second quarter and then we were able to play form the lead.  It is easier to play when you are on top."—Libera

THEY SAID IT

"Big night, senior night, big rival in Chatham. All the boys worked hard.  Everyone did good, the seniors did their job. Dilan Kluge hit a big 3-pointer at the start and it was a big spark. We worked hard and got the win."—Goodwin 

UP NEXT - Madsion will travel to Morristown Tuesday, 7 p.m.