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DUI Lawyers in Rumson, NJ
New Jersey has some of the toughest laws in the country regarding drunk driving, specifically driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving under the influence (DUI). Notably, there's a strict prohibition against plea bargaining to reduce DWI charges. A first-time conviction for drunk driving can result in hefty fines, a possible jail sentence of up to 30 days, and a 90-day suspension of your driving privileges, not to mention additional financial repercussions that can linger.
If you find yourself arrested for driving under the influence, prepare for mandatory license suspension, the potential for jail time, and a staggering minimum of $6,575 in fines and surcharges if convicted. If your insurance company catches wind of the conviction, you may have to pay significant premium increases over the next three years
The truth is that New Jersey's courts are notoriously harsh on people arrested for DUI and DWI. The penalties are substantial and can have a lasting impact on your freedom, work, and life as a whole. Fortunately, working with a quality DUI lawyer - like Edward G. Appel - can help prevent serious charges from going on your permanent record.
- Get Your DUI Case Dismissed with Help from Attorney Edward G. Appel
- The DUI Lawyers in Rumson, NJ, You Can Trust
- What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
- How Do DUI Lawyers in Rumson, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
- Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
- DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Rumson, NJ
Edward G. Appel, Esq.
Since 1988 Edward honed his litigation expertise serving as a defense attorney in Criminal Cases, DUI/DWI and traffic matters.
His distinguished courtroom seasoning will benefit his clients as Edward focuses on criminal defense litigation. He has handled thousands of cases and is well versed in motion practice with years of trial experience. His philosophy of being well prepared has served him well over the years and is a testament to his work ethic and diligence. Email: eappel@southjerseydui.com
The DUI Lawyers in Rumson, NJ, You Can Trust
Did you know that getting a DUI conviction in New Jersey means that you'll have that charge on your record for everyone to see? We're not just talking about friends and family. We mean loan officers, college officials, and prospective employers - people and entities that can help set you on a pathway to success in life. For that reason alone, it's absolutely essential to have a seasoned DUI attorney by your side who can fight for your rights when it's time to go to court. That's where DUI attorney Edward G. Appel comes in.
Many law firms in New Jersey view DWI cases as just another item on their agenda. At our firm, however, it's a primary focus. Unlike those where DWI matters are handled by generalists, we have built a dedicated department solely for DWI cases, staffed with highly trained attorneys who are passionate about this area of law.
This level of specialization isn't just a talking point. It reflects our commitment to providing clients with the strongest defense possible. By leveraging advanced training and a thorough understanding of New Jersey DUI laws, our team is ready to fight your DUI charges and pursue the best possible outcomes for your case.
At the end of the day, our goal isn't to lecture you or judge your actions. Our goal is to defend you and your rights with reliable, aggressive advocacy so you have a real shot at reclaiming your life. Some of the most common situations we help clients overcome include:
DUI Defense in New Jersey
There are several methods to challenge a DWI charge, so facing this accusation does not necessarily lead to a conviction. Attorney Edward G. Appel will examine the specifics of your case to identify the best approach to defend your rights and safeguard your freedom.
DUI Penalties in New Jersey
Receiving a DUI conviction can lead to significant repercussions, irrespective of whether it's your first offense or a subsequent one. The best way to mitigate the risks of jail time, fines, license revocation, and other penalties is to contest your charge with the assistance of a skilled DUI attorney in Rumson, NJ.
DUI Charges Involving Drugs in New Jersey
Being charged with DUI can happen if you're impaired by illegal substances, prescription medications, or even over-the-counter drugs. These situations tend to be complex, so having a skilled attorney is essential to effectively contest the charges.
DUI Penalties in New Jersey
A DUI conviction can lead to significant repercussions, whether it's your first offense or if you've been charged before. The best way to avoid penalties such as jail time, fines, and license suspension is to contest your DWI charge with the assistance of a skilled attorney.
DUI Field Sobriety and BAC Tests in New Jersey
Authorities use several types of tests to ascertain whether a driver is under the influence. These tests consist of field sobriety tests, breath analysis, and blood examinations. However, the outcomes of these evaluations can sometimes be misleading. Edward G. Appel has the expertise to recognize and demonstrate the inaccuracies in these results to protect your freedom.
What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
Most people feel anxious and frightened after getting arrested for DWI because they are uncertain about what comes next. It almost feels like you're about to hike Fort Hancock near Rumson, NJ without the proper climbing gear. That's why it's so important to understand what to anticipate following a DUI arrest - so you can prepare yourself. The initial step in the legal process is the arraignment, which is a court session that occurs soon after your DUI arrest. At this session, the judge will outline the charges that have been brought against you and give you a summary of the penalties you might face. A significant number of traffic cases are settled with plea agreements, but prosecutors are prohibited from providing these arrangements in DUI cases.
That means you have two options: You can plead guilty and face the full penalties of a DUI conviction, or you can plead not guilty and continue to fight for your rights. There is a chance that your charges could be dropped before the trial, but this usually occurs only if there are significant weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence. The judge in your case will decide the outcome after both parties have presented their evidence. Instead of going through this complicated legal process by yourself, call a New Jersey DUI lawyer like Edward G. Appel. It could mean the difference between years of hardship and a clean record.
Understanding DUI Charges in New Jersey: Criminal vs. Traffic Offenses
In New Jersey, driving under the influence (DUI) is categorized as a traffic violation, though the consequences of DUI charges are severe. However, a license suspension is not mandatory for all offenders. First-time offenders arrested with a blood alcohol content (BAC) level under 0.15% may avoid suspension if they quickly install an ignition interlock device (IID) in their personal vehicle. Other potential penalties associated with a DUI conviction can include community service, fines, and, in certain situations, imprisonment. Depending on the circumstances of your case, working with experienced DUI attorneys in Rumson, NJ, can help you avoid some or all of these punishments.
You may also be charged with DUI if you operate a vehicle while under the influence of any intoxicating substances, regardless of whether they are illegal, prescribed, or available over the counter. The specific type of drug is irrelevant; what matters is your impairment and inability to drive safely.
If convicted of a drug-related DUI, you could face:
- A license suspension of 7 to 12 months
- Up to 30 days of incarceration
- Fines and surcharges exceeding $3,500
A second conviction may result in a jail sentence ranging from 2 to 90 days and a 2-year suspension of your driver's license, along with increased fines and surcharges.
Here's What to Expect After Your 1st DUI Charge in New Jersey
Many individuals charged with DUI believe that they will receive leniency if it's their first offense, but this is not always true. First-time offenders may incur significant fines, up to 30 days of incarceration, and the compulsory installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicle. Penalties increase for first-time offenders with a BAC of 0.10% or more at the time of arrest.
As mentioned above, these individuals face a longer mandatory IID installation period, larger fines, and the potential for jail time. First-time offenders will also experience a rise in their auto insurance premiums after their arrest. The State of New Jersey takes DUI offenses seriously, even for those encountering it for the first time.
Here's What to Expect After Your 2nd DUI Charge in New Jersey
It doesn't take a graduate from RumsonFair Haven High School in Rumson, NJ to know that getting a second DUI is bad. Defendants who are charged again within 10 years of a prior conviction face increased penalties for a second DUI offense. They may be fined up to $1,000 and must serve at least 48 hours in jail, with a maximum of 90 days. Additionally, a second conviction can lead to 30 days of community service, a one-to-two-year license suspension, and two to four years of mandatory ignition interlock device (IID) use. These consequences, along with higher insurance rates, can significantly affect a repeat offender's life.
Here's What to Expect After Your 3rd DUI Charge in New Jersey
The court has the authority to impose stringent penalties on individuals with two or more DUI convictions within the past decade. If a person is found guilty of DUI for the third time in a 10- year span, the court may sentence them to 180 days in jail along with a $1,000 fine. Those convicted for the third time will lose their driving licenses for a duration of 8 years.
The court may also require these offenders to install an ignition interlock device for a period of two to four years after their driving rights are reinstated. Because third-time offenders are categorized as high-risk drivers, they will likely face significantly increased auto insurance rates. These individuals should anticipate an extra $1,500 surcharge on their auto insurance each year for three consecutive years. Given that these penalties can have a serious impact on both personal and professional aspects of life, it is crucial to contest the charges with help from a skilled DUI attorney like Edward G. Appel.
How Do DUI Lawyers in Rumson, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
Hiring a well-respected DUI lawyer often has a major impact on your case's outcome. Great attorneys will get started immediately by taking a deep dive into the particulars of your case. They'll look for issues with the prosecution's evidence, such as:
- Did on-scene officers follow protocol when storing samples and administering chemical tests?
- Did officers have a valid reason for pulling you over to begin with?
- Are the results from your chemical tests reliable?
If not, a lawyer can expose these concerns, potentially resulting in the dismissal of the charges. These are just a few examples of how an attorney can challenge DUI charges for you.
At the law firm of Edward G. Appel, we thoroughly investigate every detail when defending our clients. In fact, our clients benefit from personalized attention, support, and a meticulously crafted defense that aligns with the specific details of their arrest. For instance, if you're arrested for DUI near Twin Lights State Historic Site in Rumson, NJ, our team can examine the scene, analyze the protocols police took, and interview witnesses. We're not satisfied until our lawyers have explored every potential defense strategy for your case. Through comprehensive investigation, negotiation, and, when required, litigation, we strive to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients.
Clients choose us not to simply enter a guilty plea but to robustly contest the charges against them. While no attorney can promise specific outcomes, we assure you that we will continue to advocate for you until you decide otherwise. We examine every detail of your case to ensure all necessary evidence is gathered and the right motions are submitted. There are motions available to suppress evidence if your constitutional rights were infringed upon during the stop, as well as motions to limit or dismiss evidence under particular conditions. Contact us today to evaluate your case. We are eager to help you, even if it's just to provide an initial consultation.
Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
The steps you take following a DUI arrest can significantly influence your chances of successfully contesting the charges. Unfortunately, many individuals fall into common traps that can worsen their situation and negatively impact the outcome of their case. Here's a list of the three most common mistakes that people tend to make after being arrested for DUI.
1. Failing to Hire Reputable DUI Attorneys in Rumson, NJ
When selecting a lawyer for a DUI case, you can consult your family lawyer, seek a recommendation from a friend, or find a local attorney. The biggest thing to remember is that you should hire an attorney who understands DUI law and has a solid reputation in DUI defense. Legal issues can be complicated in New Jersey, which is why competent support is paramount. Presenting the right defenses at the right time is crucial; otherwise, you may lose those opportunities. Evidence can disappear, memories can fade, and witnesses may become unavailable. A case that seems winnable can quickly turn into a lost cause. Remember that failing to act is also a choice.
2. Downplaying DUI Consequences
Understanding the implications of a conviction is a key part of strategizing your defense and can influence your defense approach. Factors such as how your home state handles convictions, the impact of any previous offenses, whether you are a commercial driver or the potential effects on your employment should be explored with a DUI lawyer who is familiar with the possible repercussions of your unique situation.
3. Giving Up and Pleading Guilty
Anyone can choose to plead guilty. However, if you decide to challenge your DUI charge, you have a chance of winning. By pleading guilty, you forfeit that opportunity. There are many scientific and constitutional challenges that can lead to the dismissal of your DUI case. When you plead guilty, you give up your right to contest these issues and force the State to prove its case against you. It's important to check that your lawyer is well-equipped to spot the issues that could lead to a successful defense in your case
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DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Rumson, NJ
Since 1988, Edward G. Appel, Esq. and his team of criminal defense attorneys have fought hard for the rights of clients just like you - men and women who have been charged with a DUI in New Jersey. Because the truth is that a DUI conviction can change your life in an instant.
Opportunities that you once had may be lost, sometimes forever. Having an experienced and dedicated defense attorney by your side can mean the difference between incarceration and dismissed charges or a diminished sentence. It's critical that you exercise your right to hire an attorney who can protect your freedom and defend you in court. Call the offices of Edward G. Appel to learn more about DUI law in New Jersey and to schedule your initial consultation today.
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Latest News in Rumson, NJ
Rumson-Fair Haven, Southern wrestling repeat as NJSIAA group champions
Steven Falkhttps://www.app.com/story/sports/high-school/wrestling/2025/02/16/njsiaa-group-wrestling-championships/78294847007/
PISCATAWAY - Sonny Amato was not worried even though Rumson-Fair Haven was leading Caldwell by just six points entering the final bout of the NJSIAA Group 2 championship match.Senior and returning state qualifier Elijah Bayne was the wrestler who was on the mat at 120 pounds to cllinch the Bulldogs' second consecutive Group 2 championship."Perfect guy to have. He is the guy to have,'' Amato, Rumson-Fair Haven's defending 144-pound state champion, said about Bayne. "He's very good in those situations, me...
PISCATAWAY - Sonny Amato was not worried even though Rumson-Fair Haven was leading Caldwell by just six points entering the final bout of the NJSIAA Group 2 championship match.
Senior and returning state qualifier Elijah Bayne was the wrestler who was on the mat at 120 pounds to cllinch the Bulldogs' second consecutive Group 2 championship.
"Perfect guy to have. He is the guy to have,'' Amato, Rumson-Fair Haven's defending 144-pound state champion, said about Bayne. "He's very good in those situations, mentally and physically. ''
Bayne pinned Yankee Mabee in the second period to put the finishing touches on the Bulldogs' 40-28 win Sunday at Rutgers University's Jersey Mike's Arena.
"As you saw, with all that throwing around, he stayed mentally focused,'' Amato said. "He's one of our better wrestlers.''
Also, Sunday, Southern won its third straight NJSIAA Group 5 championship with a 58-18 rout over outmanned Bridgewater-Raritan and Brick Memorial denied its 10th group championship. The Mustangs were defeated 45-30 by Delsea in the Group 3 final. It was Delsea's fourth straight Group 3 title.
Bayne said it was the first time all season, where a match came down to him in the final bout.
"At first, there was a lot of pressure when I went out there,'' Bayne said. "Once I stepped on the mat, I knew what my job had to be and I knew I had to get it done for the team.''
Bayne built a 5-1 lead on a takedown in the first period and two back points in the second before he put Mabee to his back with an arm bar.
"My game plan going out there was to do my job and get it done as fast as I could,'' Bayne said. "I love getting on top and I love working that bar (arm bar).''
Rumson-Fair Haven was missing one of its best wrestlers
The match was still in the balance heading into the final bout because Rumson-Fair Haven (28-1) forfeited at 215 pounds, even though two-time state qualifier Conor Delaney, who is 32-1 on the season, weighed in.
Rumson-Fair Haven head coach Eleazar DeLuca was tight-lipped about why Delaney did not wrestle for the second match in a row. Delaney did not wrestle in the Bulldogs' 57-24 win over Middle Township in the Group 2 semifinal.
"Why do you need to know that? "I can't tell you that. It's a private matter,'' DeLuca said, when asked why Delaney did not wrestle. "He'll be good to go for districts.''
The forfeit created at least a nine-point swing, if not more.
Caldwell closed to wihtin 34-28 headed into the final bout on a pin at 106 and a 7-4 win by Carmine Sipper at 113 over Eamon Fry in a matchup of returning state qualifiers.
How Rumson-Fair Haven built its lead
Rumson-Fair Haven had built its lead on pins by Amato and returning state qualifier Matt Smith (heavyweight) and a win by technical fall by returning state qualifier Luke Dougherty (190).
Amato's pin started a four-bout, 18-point run that also included a forfeit to Cole Pangborn at 165 and decisions by returning state qualifier Mario DelVecchio (150) and Walker Skove (157).
"It was a lot closer than I expected. I give all respect to Caldwell and props to their coaching staff,'' Amato said.
But, it in the end, it was a special season for Rumson-Fair Haven.
In addition to repeating as Group 2 champions, the Bulldogs defeated Group 5 champion Southern, Group 3 finalist Brick Memorial, Group 4 champion North Hunterdon, Group 4 finalist Phillipsburg and Non-Public A semifinal St. John Vianney within a 13-day span in January.
"We train hard, and it shows,'' Amato said.
Southern makes school history
According to Southern head coach Dan Roy, it is the first time Southern has won three straight group championships in any sport.
Southern had to overcome adversity during the season. It wrestled the last five weeks of the season without returning state third-place finisher Hayden Hochstrasser (175) and returning state fourth-place finisher Bryce Manera (132).
Roy said Manera will not be entered in the District 26 Tournament due to an ankle injury. Roy said Hochstrasser's status for districts was still uncertain. Hochstrasser did weigh in Sunday at 184.3.
"We really wanted to get this,'' Roy said. "We've been talking about winning a third straight since last summer. It was tough with the injuries this year, trying to stay positive. We just kept wrestling and had kids that stepped up along the way.''
Coming together as a team
Senior 157-pounder Wyatt Stout, who is a two-time state top six finisher, said the wrestlers talked it over after the Rams' loss to Rumson-Fair Haven on Jan. 28. That was Southern's third defeat in a 20-day span. All of the defeats came while wrestling short-handed.
"We took losses that we should not have taken,'' Stout, who recorded one of the Rams' seven pins Sunday. "We all just came together as a group collectively and said, 'We've got to get our stuff together'. We can't be losing.''
Southern won eight straight after the Rumson-Fair Haven defeat. Its five state tournament wins were by an average of 49.4 points.
"Being able to ovecome adversity made us tougher overall,'' Stout said.
"It's great that I had seniors that were able to take on that role (leadership) and help these younger kids and kind of keep the team together,'' Roy said. "It's hard doing it by yourself. You've got to have good leaders. I just feel like the kids really pulled together at the end.''
Roy said the defeats to Group 2 champion Rumson-Fair Haven, Non-Public A semifinalist St. John Vianney and Shore Conference Class A champion Christian Brothers Academy may have benefitted his team in the long run, even though Southern is a program that never likes to lose to anybody.
"When you get a couple of losses like that, some of the pressure comes off,'' Roy said. "Wrestling good competion enables you to find out what you need to work out. I think we were able to coach these guys up for the end of the year, once we were able to evaulate what's going on with each kid.''
Southern took control early
In addition to Stout, the Rams (18-3) received pins from returning state runner-up Anthony Mason (113), returning state qualifiers Cash McVey (126) and Scottie Sari (138), 2023 state qualifier Noah Fontana (157), Levi Foote (190) and Caleb Counts (heavyweight). Freshman Cade Collins (106) had a technical fall.
Delsea too much for Brick Memorial
Delsea's firepower in the middle weights was too much for Brick Memorial.
The Crusaders (21-2) built a 33-0 lead after six bouts, which was too much for Brick Memorial's firepower from 190-106 to overcome.
"I'm so proud of these kids and the way they've gone about their business,'' Brick Memorial head coach Mike Kiley said. "These kids all bought in. They hang out with each other. They have great senior leadership with Harvey (Harvey Ludington), Gavin (Gavin Martin). Ben (Ben Szuba). I think seniors are what get you to these type of matches. We had that senior leadership. That's a credit to those guys.''"Ja
The match started in a bad spot for Brick Memorial (14-5) at 126 pounds, which meant a trip through some weights where the Mustangs have struggled all season before the match hit their firepower.
A key result was the second bout at 132 pounds where Delsea's three-time state qualifier Gage Summers pinned returning state qualifier Gavin Martin early in the third period. Martin was winning 6-2 in the second period.
"I would have liked to have started a little bit higher, like 165, but it is what it is,'' Kiley said.
Kiley was perturbed Delsea coach Tom Maxwell decided to forfeit to two-time state champion Ludington at 215. Ludington weighed in at 190 with two-time state qualifier Trey Tallmadge and was bumping up to 215.
Delsea had two returning state qualifiers in Sal Marchese and Alex Grippo weighed in at 215. Marchese bumped up to heavyweight to wrestle two-time state qualifier Ben Szuba. Szuba came from-behind to defeat Marchese 10-6. Grippo did not wrestle
"Harvey wanted to wrestle here,'' Kiley said. "This (wrestling in a state group final) is something high school gets excited about. He's definitely hurting they didn't send a guy out.''
GROUP 2
Rumson-Fair Haven 40, Caldwell 28
126: Joaquin Duque (RFH) tf. Dom Holler 4:58 (17-2)
132: Anthony Barrett (C) tf. Henry Marshall 3:20 (19-3).
138: Solomon Soriente (C) tf. Andrew Newell 3:12 (20-5)
144: Sonny Amato (RFH) p. Rocco Conforti 2:28
150: Mario DelVecchio (RFH) d. Nicco Capaldo 9-4.
157: Walker Skove (RFH) d. Ben Lattimer 6-0.
165: Cole Pangborn (RFH) by forfeit.
175: Andrew Fonseca (C) d. Ryder Izzo 9-2.
190: Luke Dougherty (RFH) tf. Jake Simone 4:38 (19-3).
215: Michael Mignone (C) by forfeit.
HWT: Matt Smith (R) p. Qays Rabah :57
106: Matt Ruane (C) p. Luke Eberhard 4:48
113: Carmine Sipper (C) d. Eamon Fry 7-4
120: Elijah Bayne (R) p. Yankee Mabee 2:41
GROUP 3
Delsea 45, Brick Memorial 30
126: Greyson Pettit (D) tf. Kson Young 4:58 (24-6)
132: Gage Summers (D) p. Gavin Martin 4:28.
138: Zavier Stokes (D) p. Logan Cromen :37.
144: Cameron Pote (D) md. Frank Bongiovanni 11-3.
150: Jamar Dixon (D) p. Jack Marotta 1:46.
157: Riley Boos (D) p. Elvin Corona 1:42.
165: Malachi Saint-Vil (BM) d. Charles Six 12-9.
175: Joel Anderson (D) p. Garrett Scott 1:41
190: Trey Tallmadge (BM) p. Greg Sawyer 1:16.
215: Harvey Ludington (BM) by forfeit.
HWT: Ben Szuba (BM) d. Sal Marchese 10-6
106: Santino DiMatteo (BM) p. Reid Lightfoot 2:53.
113: Paul DiMatteo ((BM) by forfeit
120: Amari Vann (D) p. Michael Napolitano 2:33.
GROUP 5
Southern 58, Bridgewater-Raritan 18
113: Anthony Mason (S) p. Lucas Pelc :58.
120: Andrew Adell (B) p. Hunter Borer 1:33
126: Cash McVey (S) p. Zachary Stouffer 1:24
132: Sam Pari (S) md. Matt Marsigliano 11-2
138: Scottie Sari (S) p. Logan Levine 1:51
144: Vincent Esposito (S) md. Douglas Hesse 11-3
150: Attila Vigliante (S) d. Matthew McCann 4-1.
157: Noah Fontana (S) p. Andres Herrea-Ramos 1:13.
165: Wyatt Stout (S) p. Christopher Castro :48
175: Matthew DiEduardo (B) p. Nicholas Daddona 5:18
190: Levi Foote (S) p. Lerrod Smalls 2:20
215: Trent Levash (B) p. Sean Dupnak 2:45.
HWT: Caleb Counts (S) p. Gabriel Medina-Coello 2:19.
106: Cade Collins (S) tf. Akeo Diaz 15-0
Cruz control: Rumson boys basketball moves to Shore Conference Tournament quarterfinals
Mike Deanhttps://www.app.com/story/sports/high-school/basketball/2025/02/14/nj-shore-conference-tournament-boys-basketball-rumson-fair-haven-luke-cruz-advance-quarterfinals/78559574007/
RUMSON – Sometimes the game plan comes together just like it’s drawn up. Rumson-Fair Haven coach Chris Champeau drew it up and junior Luke Cruz brought it home with a dominant performance at both ends of the court and the Bulldogs rode an early run and an aggressive pressure defense throughout to a 69-50 win over Middletown North in a Shore Conference Tournament Round of 16 game.The win advances the sixth-seeded Bulldogs to Saturday’s quarterfinals, where they’ll face No. 3 Red Bank Regional.“We li...
RUMSON – Sometimes the game plan comes together just like it’s drawn up. Rumson-Fair Haven coach Chris Champeau drew it up and junior Luke Cruz brought it home with a dominant performance at both ends of the court and the Bulldogs rode an early run and an aggressive pressure defense throughout to a 69-50 win over Middletown North in a Shore Conference Tournament Round of 16 game.
The win advances the sixth-seeded Bulldogs to Saturday’s quarterfinals, where they’ll face No. 3 Red Bank Regional.
“We like to get out to an early start, hit a few threes and speed the game up a little. We’re tough when we’re in transition” Bulldogs’ coach Chris Champeau said. “We like to run and the pressure gets us loose and our defense can be our best offense.”
Rumson-Fair Haven boys basketball runs to early lead against Middletown North
The plan came together early as the Bulldogs jumped out to an 11-0 lead with Cruz netting six of his game-high 20 points to kickstart the run. Cruz also brought down 14 rebounds and blocked seven shots on the night.
“We were working really well together, we ran hard and we were moving the ball really well,” Curz said. “We just want to win one game at a time now and we think we can play with any team around.”
Middletown North - led by Eddie Lopez, Braden Marcotte, Colin Byrne - made a run back
After the early RFH burst, Middletown North (16-7) managed to cut the lead to 13-8 but never got closer. Middletown North junior Eddie Lopez led the way for the Lions with 16 points while sophomore guard Nate Tyburczy scored 12. Junior Braden Marcotte finished with eight and senior Colin Byrne added seven points.
“Our plan was to take away Lopez and Byrne,” Champeau said. “They’re both great players but we have a lot of depth to throw at them.”
The Bulldogs closed the first half with a 35-21 lead and stretched it to as many as 23 in the second half. Senior Nic Economu scored 13 points for the Bulldogs and junior Luke Lydon added 11 while seniors David Carr, Sean Yablonski, and Carson Memmott scored six apiece. Defensively, senior Charlie Butters set the tone off the bench early for the Bulldogs, helping to keep Byrne off his mark while scrambling for loose balls all over the court.
“We have a lot of depth and guys like Charlie can come off the bench and settle us down a bit. He played great tonight,” said Champeau. “We carry a lot of kids and any night any one of them can step up. Tonight, it was him.”
No Answer for Luke Cruz
The Lions just could not find an answer for Cruz, the player of the game at both ends of the floor. His offensive and presence inside on defense presented problems all night.
“He’s solid, really good and he’s improved a lot since we saw him earlier in the season,” said Middletown North coach Chris Hoffman. “They have a good team and should do well in the games ahead.”
SCT quarterfinals: Saturday, Feb. 15 at Middletown South
11 a.m. - (5) Central vs. vs. (4) St. Rose
12:45 p.m. - (7) Holmdel vs. (2) CBA
2:30 - (6) Rumson-Fair Haven vs. (3) Red Bank
4:15 p.m. - (9) Colts Neck vs. (1) Manasquan
Semifinals
Wednesday, Feb. 19 at RWJ Barnabas Health Arena, Toms River
Championship
Friday, Feb. 21 at OceanFirst Bank Center, West Long Branch
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