New Bedford secured a 20-14 victory over Brockton on Friday, marking the Whalers’ first win against their rivals since 2018 and continuing their impressive turnaround this season. The defensive unit sealed the win in the closing seconds, with senior Tru Gonsalves-Cosme making a critical pass deflection in the end zone to prevent a potential game-winning touchdown.
With just four seconds remaining and New Bedford’s defense pinned at their own 3-yard line, Brockton quarterback Marcio Semedo attempted a decisive pass to the end zone. Gonsalves-Cosme, who transferred to New Bedford alongside teammate Lyric Ramos from Bishop Stang before their senior seasons, tracked the intended receiver closely and disrupted the play, preserving the narrow lead.
Ramos played a significant role in the Whalers’ comeback late in the game, scoring the go-ahead touchdown with 90 seconds remaining. His touchdown capped a 35-yard scoring drive that was set up by an impressive 35-yard interception return earlier in the quarter. Ramos recorded 62 total yards and was responsible for both fourth-quarter touchdowns. His first score came on a 39-yard reception from Gonsalves-Cosme, pulling New Bedford within two points at 14-12. Shortly after, Gonsalves-Cosme connected with Jordyn Correia to tie the game before Ramos secured the winning touchdown.
New Bedford’s resurgence this year stands in stark contrast to last season, when the team finished winless at 0-10. Coach Bob Lomp, now in his second year leading the program, attributed the success to a significant increase in participation and effort. “Last year, we didn’t win a game. We weren’t even in a game,” Lomp said. “We started with 16 guys last year. This summer we had 60 come out. It’s been a year-long process to get to this point.”
The victory helped New Bedford improve to 6-1 on the season, highlighting the Whalers’ dramatic improvement and raising expectations for the remainder of the year. Brockton, meanwhile, fell to 3-4 with the loss. The game underscored the impact of key transfers and the development of the team’s defense, suggesting New Bedford is poised for continued success as the season progresses.