Christian Brothers Outlasts Bergen Catholic in 3-2 Showdown

photo & coverage by: Parker Smith

In a matchup worthy of postseason intensity, Christian Brothers Academy wrapped up its regular season with a statement win, taking down Bergen Catholic, 3–2, on Saturday morning in Lincroft. The clash between two of New Jersey’s top programs had everything you’d expect — early fireworks, steady adjustments, and a late push that tested both sides until the final whistle.

Bergen Catholic wasted no time striking first. Just five minutes in, Owen McAuley capitalized on a well-placed free kick from Frank Burns, giving the Crusaders the early advantage and silencing the home crowd. But CBA didn’t blink. The Colts regrouped, pressing higher up the field and creating chances off set pieces. Their persistence paid off midway through the first half when Ryan Asadi converted off a corner from Will Drechsler to even the score.

With the game swinging in momentum, the Colts took full control before halftime. Senior leader James Brady found the back of the net with seconds remaining in the half, turning a long throw-in from Trey Higgins into a go-ahead strike that put CBA up 2–1 heading into the break.

Bergen Catholic came out pressing after halftime, but CBA’s discipline held. The Colts extended their lead in the 57th minute when Charlie Messano rose above the defense to head a goal, giving his team a two-goal cushion. The Crusaders, however, wouldn’t go quietly — Frank Burns answered just moments later with a free kick that snuck inside the post to make it 3–2.

From there, it was all about managing the moment. Keeper Brady Lepore came up clutch with a few saves to protect the lead. The Colts finished with a slight edge in shots on goal and controlled tempo through the midfield as time expired.

With the win, CBA closes the regular season at 11–1–4, carrying serious momentum into postseason play. Bergen Catholic, now 9–3–1, will look to regroup as it heads into county tournament action — and possibly another chance to cross paths with CBA when the stakes are even higher.