Fans simply could not understand what had occurred in the fourth quarter of Thursday’s South Group 5 NJSIAA Regional Invitational Tournament first-round matchup.
Following a measurement near the opposite sideline, a first down was awarded to Eastern high school after a close fourth-down play. However, a video clip appears to show a referee not only moved the chains but also moved the ball, then quickly awarded the first down.
The NJSIAA has reviewed the footage and made a ruling that the refs will not be assigned to any future postseason games.
“NJSIAA has reviewed the video of the Vineland versus Eastern state playoff football game and, in agreement with the New Jersey Football Officials Association, has determined that the entire officiating crew – pending a hearing next week with the South Chapter of the New Jersey Football Officials Association – will not be assigned future postseason games.”
Eastern would go on to score and take the lead after that gifted first down.
Vineland returned the ensuing kickoff deep into Eastern territory and scored the game-winning touchdown in the closing moments for a 20-19 victory.
