Quarterback Danny Wildgoose threw three touchdown passes, and Shawn Purcell did what he does – with a TD catch and a TD run – but the defense saved the day Saturday afternoon for Manville.

After going ahead 28-27 with under nine minutes to play, the Mustangs used two big defensive stands to hold off Dayton, for a win that moves Manville to 3-1.

The game was played at Scotch Plains-Fanwood, with Dayton’s field having suffered storm damage from Ida.

With four games left on the schedule – three of which Manville would be favored in against opponents with a combined 1-14 record – the Mustangs should have a good shot at the playoffs, unless the system of needing to play strong opponents works against them.

Be that as it may, it’s still one game at a time for a team whose hometown was devastated by Ida’s remnants just a few weeks ago, but which has fought back and persevered as always in the face of adversity.

Click below to hear Mike Pavlichko talk about the Dayton win with Manville head coach Pat Gorbatuk: