The Watertown Raiders and the Belmont Marauders battled their hearts out in a milestone game at Fenway Park on Thanksgiving Eve 2022. The energy surrounding this build-up was unlike no other, full of excitement from the fans, cheerleaders, bands, and players. The Raiders put on a show for the Watertown crowd and did not disappoint Wednesday night.

Raiders running back Billy McHugh and quarterback Johnny Cacace had fantastic offensive and defensive performances in the first and last quarters. Cacace was able to scramble for a 7-yard touchdown in the first quarter, while McHugh collected two giant touchdowns in the fourth quarter, one of them being a run of 55 yards, and an interception to catapult the Raiders to a 21-7 victory in front of an electric crowd at Fenway. 

The Raiders finished their 2022 season with a 7-4 record, while Belmont ended 4-6.

Afterward, the Raiders expressed their excitement about being able to play at such an iconic ballpark, especially being able to capture a win against their Middlesex rivals.

“This felt amazing,” said McHugh. “It was the 100th game. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play here.  I scored two touchdowns and an interception. It’s amazing.” 

Raiders defensive tackle Elias Ortiz was filled with emotions after the game, expressing gratitude and happiness after a final performance for Watertown High.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime thing,” he said. “I’ve never smiled this much in my life! This goes out to my mom! I love my mom so much, everything I do is for her. These guys here are my brothers.” 

Cacace as well conveyed his feelings and how he felt about the environment of the game.

“Coming out here was unbelievable, there are more people here than I ever imagined,” the senior said. “They were loud, it was like playing in a college or professional game, it was unreal.” 

Cacace also shared his feelings that he and his senior teammates were feeling.

“We gave everything we got, and now for the rest of our lives we can say that our last game ever for Watertown is that we beat Belmont, 21-7, at Fenway,” he said.

Watertown coach John Cacace was grateful for the opportunity to share a memorable moment with the squad.

“I love this group, they’ve given me everything they could all year long, and this is what they deserve all along,” he said.

Coach Cacace also spoke about the crowd that came out to support the team in an emotional last game of the season.

“I appreciate all the support, I appreciate the kids that play for us,” he said. “It’s wonderful for this program, and I’m happy the fans got to experience this today.” 

–Nov. 23, 2022–