Video Highlights of Spartans Dramatic Win, Ensuing Celebration

The Spartans defeated Old Tappan in front of a huge crowd at Paramus High School. 

It was a battle down to the end. Matt Alpher kicked a field goal with less than 40 seconds remaining to give the Spartans a 17-16 lead.

"I love that kid," said Quarterback Tyler Smith.

Smith wasn’t the only Spartan ready to praise the clutch kicker.

“He’s been a tremendous difference maker for us,” said Head Coach Dan Sabella. “He’s brought us something that we’ve never had before. We wanted to score down there but you can tell [Alpher] was confident and we believe in him. Everybody believes in him.”

Alpher, a soft spoken soccer style kicker, handles the big moments with complete poise and was quick to give his teammates the credit

“I was confident out there,” said Alpher. “Definitely a bit nervous. I didn’t want to be that other guy who misses the field goal. Perfect snap, perfect hold, that’s all you need.” 

A few moments later, time ran out, the fans rushed the field and the players realized that they will be going to MetLife Stadium to play Pascack Valley in the State Finals on Saturday, Dec. 7 at 4 p.m.

"Any team you play this time of year is going to be tough," Sabella. “They’ve come on a lot since the beginning of the year. We’re in it. We live to fight another day. We know what we’ve got coming.”

Sabella also quickly answered 'yes' when asked if he was confident in his team. 

Will you be going to the game? If so, tweet pictures and opinions @ParamusPatch and be sure to include the #Spartans.