By RYAN ARENA

L’Observateur

Riverside’s season came to an end at University on Friday night, as No. 6 seeded U-High stayed undefeated, capturing a 27-7 victory at home in a Class 2A regional round game.

The Rebels were attempting to reach the state quarterfinals for the third consecutive season.

University led 13-0 after a quarter after a Nick Brossette 7-yard touchdown run and a 19-yard touchdown reception by Tristan Cooper from Kyle Crifasi.

Riverside (8-4) had chances to answer and perhaps shift the momentum, including a drive deep into University (12-0) territory late in the first half. But the Rebels came up empty on a fourth down conversion try, and soon after Broussette would make it a three score game, taking a handoff 44 yards for a score with 48 seconds left before halftime.

“We had chances,” said Riverside coach Mickey Roussel. “I thought we played well defensively after their first series. We forced a couple of turnovers, but we didn’t take advantage.

“If we can answer before halftime, take it in at 13-7 … who knows. It certainly could have made a difference.”

The Rebel defense was able to force turnovers, as Tate Scioneaux and Nate Williams each came up with interceptions. But Riverside’s offense couldn’t get on track.

Jonquial Sanders carried 19 times for 47 yards. Nate Williams chimed in with 49 yards on 14 carries and two catches for 22 yards. Scioneaux was held to four completions on 14 attempts for 47 yards and two interceptions.

University held Riverside to 149 yards of total offense, while gaining 427. Broussette led the way, carrying 30 times for 182 yards.

Roussel was disappointed by the loss, but not at all in his players after a season where the Rebels replaced 18 starters and finished with eight wins.

“I can’t say enough about them,” said Roussel. “Wins and losses … a lot of people say it’s all that matters, but I’ve never looked at it that way. These kids all represent their schools and their families as well as they can, and it makes me proud as a coach, of these seniors and of this football team.”