CCSU Blocks Two FGs, Holds NEC Lead

NEW BRITAIN, Conn. – Central Connecticut’s defense delivered a dramatic and decisive performance Saturday afternoon, blocking two crucial field goal attempts in the fourth quarter to secure a nail-biting 10-7 victory over Long Island University at Arute Field. The hard-fought win propelled the Blue Devils (5-3 overall, 3-0 NEC) to sole possession of first place in the Northeast Conference standings.

The decisive defensive stands overshadowed an otherwise tight contest, where CCSU built an early lead before LIU mounted a second-half charge. The Blue Devils broke the scoreless tie in the first quarter when running back Brady Bengston powered into the end zone from four yards out, capping a methodical opening drive. Kicker Ricky Gebhardt then extended CCSU’s advantage to 10-0 in the second quarter with a successful 28-yard field goal, sending the teams into halftime with Central Connecticut firmly in control.

Long Island (4-4 overall, 3-1 NEC) found its rhythm after halftime, narrowing the deficit in the third quarter. Sharks quarterback Luca Stanzani connected with wide receiver Anthony Pope on a 16-yard touchdown pass, cutting the score to 10-7 and setting the stage for a tense final period.

The fourth quarter belonged entirely to the Blue Devils’ defense, turning into a showcase of grit and determination. With the game hanging precariously at 10-7, LIU threatened to tie. With 10:14 remaining in the contest, Sharks kicker Michael Giugliano lined up for an 18-yard field goal attempt from close range. However, CCSU defensive lineman Jalen Dawson broke through the line, getting his hands on the low kick and preserving the Blue Devils’ slim lead, sending a jolt of energy through the New Britain crowd.

The tension escalated further in the game’s waning minutes. After another promising drive that chewed significant clock, LIU once again positioned Giugliano for a potential game-tying 18-yard field goal with just 13 seconds left on the clock. This time, it was defensive back Jack Stoll who burst through the blocking unit, swatting down Giugliano’s kick to seal the victory and ignite a jubilant celebration on the CCSU sideline as the final seconds ticked away.

“Our defense played with an incredible amount of heart and determination today,” said CCSU Head Coach Pete Rossomando after the game. “To make not one, but two, game-winning plays in that situation, it speaks volumes about their resolve and preparation. This is a gritty football team, and they showed it when it mattered most. Every player bought in and executed under immense pressure.”

Dawson reflected on his pivotal play, stating, “I just saw the gap and went for it. You practice those situations all the time, but to do it when the game is on the line, it’s an amazing feeling. Every guy on that D-line was pushing, and it’s a team effort to get a block like that.”

Stoll, still buzzing from the dramatic finish, added, “There was no way we were letting them score. We knew they were going for it, and everyone just executed their assignment perfectly. This is what it means to be a Blue Devil – fighting until the very last second and making plays when the chips are down.”

The victory extends Central Connecticut’s conference winning streak and puts them in prime position for the NEC title. LIU, despite the tough loss, remains a strong contender, now sitting in second place in the conference standings.

Central Connecticut will look to extend their conference dominance next Saturday, November 4th, when they travel to Duquesne for another critical NEC matchup. Long Island will aim to rebound next week as they host Wagner in their own conference contest. Detailed statistics and updated conference standings can be found on the official Northeast Conference website, www.northeastconference.org, and the respective university athletic sites.