Bellport defense produces turnovers, but Garden City just too strong

A team as talented as Garden City might go a month without turning the ball over four times. But the Bellport defense didn’t shy away from the challenge of playing one of the top offenses on Long Island.

Alex Brigadir recovered three fumbles and Marcine Allen-Boutwell had an interception for Bellport, but the offense couldn’t turn those into points in a 28-0 loss to Garden City in the Long Island Class II championship game at Hofstra on Friday evening.

“Honestly, full credit to my linebackers and everyone else for popping the ball out, and I was just in the right place at the right time,” said Brigadir, a defensive end. “Unfortunately, it wasn’t the outcome we wanted, but I’m proud I was able to do my part.”

Garden City finished 12-0 en route to its fifth Long Island Class II championship in the last six seasons. Bellport finished 10-2.

“It was a little uncharacteristic of them, but we weren’t able to capitalize,” coach Jamie Fabian said. “They made some mistakes and they overcame them. They were able to stop us and get the ball back and put themselves in great positions. Really great team we played against tonight.’’

All three of Brigadir’s fumble recoveries came in the first half. Allen-Boutwell recorded his interception with 8:32 left in the third quarter and Bellport trailing 14-0.

“It was a special moment I’ll remember forever,” Allen-Boutwell said. “I honestly thought that was going to be the turning point of the game, but it’s just hard. They are a tough team.”

Fabian credited the fumble recoveries to hustle and good positioning by Brigadir. After Bellport’s second straight Long Island Class II championship game appearance, Brigadir is proud of everything the Clippers achieved.

“I’m proud of every single person on this team,” he said. “From the scout team to the captains to the starters, we got to the final stage. Just not the outcome we wanted.”