Freehold Township Stuns No. 5 Manalapan to Win Central Group 4 Title
UPDATE: In a shocking upset, sixth-seeded Freehold Township defeated top-seeded Manalapan 1-0 to clinch the Central Jersey Group 4 title on November 4, 2025. With an incredible performance, junior goalkeeper Violet Matthews made 11 saves, leading her team to victory and ending Manalapan’s perfect season at 20-1.
This victory is monumental for Freehold Township, who entered the playoffs as the underdogs, having lost four straight games before the tournament. Head coach Dave Patterson had faith in his underclassmen and experienced players, and they finally proved their potential in this decisive match.
Junior defender Sihera Karce scored the only goal of the game in the 27th minute with a stunning long-range shot, marking her first varsity goal. “I just saw the goal, had the ball and had space and said, ‘You know what, I’m going to shoot it,’” she stated, highlighting her unexpected moment of glory.
“I’m just so happy right now, I can’t believe we just did that,” Matthews expressed after the game. “We were the underdogs and we had nothing to lose.”
Despite dominating possession with a staggering 25-5 advantage in shots, Manalapan could not find the back of the net. Matthews’ performance was critical; she made several crucial saves, including a spectacular stop during a direct kick from Manalapan’s Daniella Butash.
“Our defenders dug deep, our midfielders dug deep, and Violet was incredible in goal,” Patterson praised. Freehold Township’s defense, bolstered by seniors like Gianna Neron and Christina Celano, executed a game plan that frustrated Manalapan’s attack throughout the 80 minutes.
With this victory, Freehold Township earns their sixth sectional title since 2015. They are set to face Cherokee, the South Group 4 sectional champion, in the Group 4 semifinals tentatively scheduled for Wednesday. Cherokee recently defeated Central Regional 1-0 to secure their first sectional title.
The emotional impact of this win is palpable. “It’s the most indescribable feeling,” Karce said, echoing the sentiments of a team that fought through adversity to achieve this remarkable win. “They found a way about two weeks ago,” Patterson noted, reflecting on the team’s transformation in the lead-up to this crucial match.
As Freehold Township progresses in the playoffs, this victory serves as a reminder that hard work and determination can lead to unexpected triumphs. Stay tuned for more updates on their journey in the NJSIAA state playoffs.
