The Nutley High School boys varsity lacrosse takes on Jonathan Dayton High School, of Springfield, in the first play under the lights at the Nutley Park Oval. on Wednesday, April 6.
the first play under the lights at the Nutley Park Oval. on Wednesday, April 6.
NUTLEY, NJ — Tangorra Field/Park Oval is one of the most cherished places in Nutley.
For decades, many memorable moments have occurred at the field.
Over the years, there also have been a few night Nutley High School football games at the field, thanks to temporary lightning.
On Wednesday night, April 6, the Oval officially unveiled its permanent lighting system when the lacrosse team hosted Jonathan Dayton High School, of Springfield.
Nutley, under second-year head coach Mike Salvatelli, prevailed under the lights by a score of 20-12 for its first victory of the season.
Salvatelli and his team felt honored for being the first team to host a night game at the Oval with the permanent lighting. And they enjoyed every minute of it, wrote Salvatelli in an email to the Nutley Journal.
Senior captain Matt Pergola had a game-high 11 goals. A few minutes into the game, Pergola scored his 100th career goal. He currently sits at 110 career goals for the Raiders.
“The Stevens Institute of Technology-bound attackmen is one of the most prolific scorers in New Jersey,” said Salvatelli of Pergola. “Last year, as a junior, he was in the top ranks around the state for points. The senior co-captain has been a prominent member of the Nutley Raider offense since his freshman year. His talent speaks for itself on the field, but his calm demeanor off of the field has played a crucial role in his success.”
The Raiders are looking forward to a big season from him, as well as his 12 senior teammates, Salvatelli said.
“We have a great group of seniors and a few underclassmen in the mix as well, so we are hoping for a big year!” Salvatelli added. “Our athletic director, Joe Piro, has been incredibly supportive of our program and we are excited to host more night games!”
Photos Courtesy of Karen Greco
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