Wood-Ridge Defeats Roselle Park to Open Season, 41-6

Wood-Ridge opened the high school football season with a 41-6 victory over Roselle Park, with freshman quarterback Ayden Ciliento Jr. leading an explosive offensive display. The game showcased emerging talent and cohesive execution on both sides of the field.

Wood-Ridge won the opening toss and deferred to the second half, giving Roselle Park first possession. After an initial Roselle Park drive that ended on fourth down, Wood-Ridge struck immediately. Running back Simmonds scored on a one-yard touchdown run, with the PAT blocked for a 6-0 lead.

Roselle Park answered with a kickoff return touchdown by Nick Salas, but the PAT went wide right. Wood-Ridge extended their lead to 12-0 on an 18-yard Simmonds touchdown run, then pulled away before halftime. Michael Prato caught a 65-yard receiving touchdown pass, and Ciliento Jr. connected with Ayden Ciliento on a 10-yard screen pass for another score. Simmonds added another rushing touchdown, with Nicholas Prato converting a two-point PAT pass from Ciliento Jr., making it 35-6 at the break.

In the second half, Wood-Ridge's offense struck quickly again. Ciliento Jr. connected with Chance Iacovino for a 21-yard touchdown pass. The missed PAT left the final score at 41-6. Wood-Ridge's defense held Roselle Park scoreless throughout the second half.

Blue Devils head coach Andrew Carbone praised his freshman quarterback after the game. "Junior's well developed beyond his years," Carbone said. "We're just going to let the game come to him. And we know he can make throws when we need to. If we have to be aggressive, we will."

Union County Life covers local high school football, athletes, and community sports. Find more Wood-Ridge and Roselle Park game updates, schedules, and sports coverage on Union County Life.

FAQ

Q: What was the final score of the Wood-Ridge versus Roselle Park football game?
A: Wood-Ridge defeated Roselle Park 41-6 in their season opener on Friday, September 5, 2026. Wood-Ridge scored in every quarter and dominated the second half.

Q: Who scored touchdowns in the Wood-Ridge versus Roselle Park game?
A: For Wood-Ridge, running back Simmonds scored multiple rushing touchdowns. Michael Prato caught a 65-yard receiving touchdown, Ayden Ciliento scored on a screen pass reception, and Chance Iacovino caught a 21-yard touchdown pass from Ciliento Jr. Roselle Park's Nick Salas scored on a kickoff return for a touchdown.

Q: Who is Wood-Ridge's quarterback?
A: Ayden Ciliento Jr., a freshman, started at quarterback for Wood-Ridge. Coach Andrew Carbone praised Ciliento Jr.'s poise and arm strength, noting he is "well developed beyond his years."

Q: When is Wood-Ridge's next football game?
A: Check Wood-Ridge High School's athletics website or Union County Life for the full schedule and upcoming game dates.

Q: Where can I find more high school football coverage in Union County?
A: Union County Life covers high school football, game recaps, player highlights, and schedules across all Union County towns. Follow for weekly updates and season coverage.