Cougars Hang Tough On Homecoming

Dre Mugusto makes his entrance during the introductions before Saturday’s homecoming game.

The Commack Cougars hung in tough against undefeated Lindenhurst in Saturday’s Suffolk Division I showdown, which was also Commack’s homecoming game.

Commack (3-5) held Lindenhurst (8-0) scoreless through the first quarter, and jumped out to a 7-0 lead in the second quarter. Commack’s touchdown came off a pass from quarterback Ryan Sheridan to wide receiver Ronnie Beard. Kicker Pete Theodorellis then converted the extra point for the Cougars.

Lindenhurst did respond with a touchdown of its own in the second quarter, but the Bulldogs failed to convert the extra point. Commack led 7-6 at halftime.

The halftime show was filled with performances by Commack’s band, kickline and cheerleaders. The 2016 Homecoming Court was also announced, with Matthew Fisher and Nicole Dorsey being named this year’s king and queen.

Back on the field, the Cougars once again took the lead in the third quarter on another Sheridan-to-Beard touchdown. This time, however, it was Commack that failed to convert the extra point.

The Cougars led 13-6.

Lindenhurst once again answered with a touchdown of its own and the game was tied at 13-13 to end the third quarter.

Through most of the final stanza, the two teams remained deadlocked. But, with 25 second remaining, Lindenhurst broke through with a 40-yard touchdown pass that gave the Bulldogs a lead they wouldn’t relinquish.

With the loss, Commack fell to ninth place in the division. The Cougars fell just short of a spot in this year’s playoffs, which are set to begin this weekend.