ROUNDUP : Lopata’s Tackle on 2-Point Conversion Try Saves Saugus

Saugus High linebacker John Lopata stopped quarterback Todd Mather on a two-point conversion attempt with 18 seconds to play to preserve the Centurions’ 14-13 victory over host Burroughs Ridgecrest in a Golden League opener Friday night.

The victory was the fourth in a row for Saugus (4-2).

Mather, who completed 14 of 20 passes for 157 yards, set up the conversion attempt when he hooked up with wide receiver Dave Bartels (three catches, 23 yards) for a 15-yard touchdown pass.

With the score tied, 7-7 in the fourth quarter, Saugus quarterback Bobby Cowan (six of 12 for 113 yards) punched in the go-ahead touchdown on a one-yard run with 1 minute 23 seconds to play.

Saugus wide receiver Mike Cruz’s only catch went for a 45-yard touchdown in the second quarter. Burroughs fell to 3-3.