St. Rose had Roselle Catholic reeling through three quarters, but the defending state champs showed in the fourth quarter why they are New Jersey's top team.
St. Rose has the makings of a team that can challenge for New Jersey's top ranking over the next 12 months, a challenge that the Purple Roses hope to start Friday night vs. Roselle Catholic.
Manasquan's stars stepped up on offense and stepped in on defense in crucial spots to help the Warriors hold off Middle Township and reach their first state final since 2004.
St. Rose got within closing distance of its first NJSIAA sectional title since 2004 and turned to 6-foot-8 star Matt Hodge to finish off Bishop Eustace.
Coming off an 87-point outburst, St. Rose is past its Shore Conference Tournament shortcoming and ready to seize its championship opportunity Wednesday night vs. Bishop Eustace.