Cougars savor their first victory of the season

By Dave Fawcett

Published: October 15, 2008

The rule book was the last thing on Brandon Livingston's mind Friday night. But it was understandable given the situation.

The Manassas Park senior inside linebacker had just intercepted a George Mason pass in the end zone that sealed the Cougars' dramatic 27-21 come-from-behind victory in double overtime over the Mustangs.

Technically, a play like that is over when an interception is made in those circumstances.

But Livingston was so pumped up and so focused on ensuring that the Cougars came away with a victory that he took off for the opponent's end zone.

His teammates followed suit. Instead of jumping on each other at the other end to celebrate this momentous occasion, they chased after Livingston and enjoyed the moment 100 yards away.

David Coccoli, Manassas Park's first-year head coach, paused for a few moments on the sideline before deciding to jump into the post-game party as well.

It was that type of evening for a Cougar team that has endured a number of challenges this fall.

"It was significant," Coccoli said. "They've been through a lot. I've won before, but I knew it would come eventually."

The Cougars were a young team with a new coach. They were also without their top player from a year ago, quarterback Dominique Terrell, who transferred this year to Osbourn Park.

Things got off to a rough start for Manassas Park as it was outscored in its first five games 137-37. The Group A Cougars also faced an imposing schedule that included three straight Group AAA opponents, among them Briar Woods (5-1) and James Monroe (6-0).

On Friday at George Mason, Manassas Park found itself down 14-0 at half.

At that point, Coccoli turned to Livingston and challenged him to step up his game.

"I really got on him," Coccoli said. "I called him out and he turned in an all-district performance."

Livingston finished the game with seven receptions for 136 yards and two touchdowns, including one for three yards in the first overtime. Livingston also caught a key pass late in the game.

Facing a fourth and 20 from the Manassas Park 12 with two minutes remaining, Cougar quarter-back Donovan Johnson, under pressure, threw the ball up. Surrounded by three defenders, Livingston jumped up and made the catch.

"If he doesn't make that catch, the game is over," Coccoli said.

To honor his first win as a varsity coach, the team signed a game ball for Coccoli. Another game ball was presented to Manassas Park High School principal Tracy Shaver.

Coccoli said his ball currently resides on his book shelf at home.

Coccoli told his players after the game to enjoy it, but also to remember there are four games left. The team took the message to heart, but it didn't take long for them to quiet down.

The length of the game and all the energy they had expended came to a head on the bus ride home. They were happy with the outcome, but it was physically and emotionally draining.

"They were pretty tired and worn out," Coccoli said.