Oh the playoffs. Heading into the first round of elimination games, North Penn was looking strong. Entering the first playoff game of their season with a 10-0 record, the Knights hoped to surpass Ridley, and improve their record to 11-0.

The North Penn offense struck early, only 4 minutes into the game, with a touchdown and extra point from Kevin Akins and Jon Striefsky to make the score 7-0. In the first quarter big defensive plays were made by Chris Tribanas and Andrew Brown, who both played very strongly through out the night.

A drive late in the first quarter set the Knights up for an early score in the second, increasing their lead to 14. However Ridley threatened the lead with a fumble recovery, that was followed by a big NP defensive penalty that gave Ridley a first down on the 20 yd line. The North Penn defense more than made up for the penalty however, and put a stop to Ridley's offensive game. As Ridley's field goal attempt to put 3 points on the board was no good, the Knights took over on downs. Jim Laky scored a touchdown on the Knights next possession boosting the lead to 21. Great defense by Jeff Ball, and an interception by Adam Hearns stopped all chances of Ridley getting a score in the first half.

Opening the second half with a 21-0 lead the Knights defense took over, holding Ridley at the goal line, and forcing a turnover. However the lead remained the same until 4 minutes into the 4th quarter as Jim Casertano barreled his way into the end zone to make the lead now 28. Although, three minutes later, Ridley answered back with a touchdown and extra point to make the score 28-7. Once again the job was put to the defense to hold the lead, and with seniors George Farrell, Chris Tribanas, Jeff Ball, Ryan Adams and Andrew Brown leading the way, North Penn held on to win the game, final score 28-7.
North Penn will take on the winner of the Cheltenham vs. Pennridge game in their next playoff game.

- Meghan Halberstadt, NP 2005