Rutherford boys soccer comes from behind, advances in Bergen County Tourney

After his team’s first round win in this year’s Bergen County Tournament, Rutherford coach John Randazzo’s message to his team was clear: be happy, not satisfied. The 10th-seeded Bulldogs played host to an emergent and dangerous 23-seed Saddle Brook team but came out ahead 3-1 after falling behind 1-0 early in the first half. “We always find ways. That’s just how this group is — they’re resilient," Randazzo, who won his 200th game earlier this season, said. “I was happy with the decisions that we made, but we can execute a bit better.” Saddle Brook was able to get some looks in close and on set pieces, but Rutherford too was able to cash in in a variety of ways. First, they scored off a throw in that led to a play in close to tie the game. Then, later Rutherford took the lead for good on an impressive play by Alejandro Miranda to find Lucas Tecza in stride for the goal that put Rutherford up 2-1. Rutherford scored its third and final goal about three minutes later, completing the comeback and sending the Bulldogs on to face an always strong Glen Rock team in the second round of the tournament on Wednesday. And though the Bulldogs found themselves behind early, they stayed composed and were able to right the ship, which was helped by a team that Randazzo said is one of the toughest he’s ever coached. This is also a team that made the North 2, Group 2 section final last year and Randazzo said that fact, coupled with some bulletin board material has put a chip on this team’s shoulder. “It’s not lost on us that at the beginning of the season, everyone’s talking about Voorhees or Harrison or Lyndhurst in our section," he said. “Everyone’s talking about everyone around us." People are once again taking note of Rutherford, which beefed up its schedule this year with big NJIC crossover games like Emerson, Waldwick and Dwight-Englewood as well as an NJAC foe and perennial Group 3 power Chatham, who they tied 2-2 and a solid Essex County side in Group 4 Columbia, who they beat 4-3. “That wasn’t by accident. It’s about making sure our kids are battle tested regardless of our record," Randazzo said. “We’re not scared to lose to a good team. We’re not scared to put ourselves out there and play tough competition because it only helps us grow." Jake Aferiat can be reached at jaferiat@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him at @Jake_Aferiat. The N.J. High School Sports newsletter is now appearing in mailboxes 5 days a week. Sign up now! Follow us on social: Facebook | Instagram | X (formerly Twitter)