Late Surge Not Enough for Sparta Against Rivals

Pope John wins season's first meeting against crosstown foes in front of capacity crowd.

In a rivalry that goes back about 50 years, Sparta High School hosted Pope John XXIII Tuesday night for the latest chapter.  The near capacity crowd was treated to an exceptional contest between the two schools separated by only 3.5 miles. For more photos and comments on the rivalry, head here. IN SHORT The game had all the hype it should have: an age old rivalry, an undefeated Sparta team and the NJ.com No. 13 ranked Pope John coming together for their first of two annual contests. And it did not disappoint.  The first quarter was a tight match with neither team taking an advantage, but the second quarter saw Pope John take an advantage on the ten points (two 3's and a pair of baskets) scored by Bryce Aiken.  The third quarter saw Sparta …

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