It's been a football season that has had too many disappointing losses for the Ridge football team (1-4). But fullback Anthony Milito still has been a reliable leader for his team through a hard fight against many tough opponents.

Being anointed as Homecoming king at last Friday's game against Hillsborough High School was just the latest of the red-haired senior's accomplishments.

Although the Red Devils lost to Hillsborough 35-13, Milito still has piled up 385 yards and six touchdowns through five games. Ridge next faces Hunterdon Central High School Friday night at Lee Field at 7 p.m.

During the season-opener's 21-14 loss on Sept. 10 to longtime rival Immaculata High School, televised live on MSG Varsity, Milito rushed for 105 yards and pounded in Ridge's only two touchdowns.

A week later, in the Red Devils' only win, the senior scored two more times, rushing the ball for exactly 100 yards to propel his team to a 21-9 win over Montgomery.

Over the last three games, he has carried the ball 31 times for 180 yards and two touchdowns in losses against North Hunterdon, Phillipsburg and Hillsborough, 25-22, 30-7, 35-13, respectively.

Before the Hillsborough game, Milito credited his line for his accomplishments on the field.

"It's been my line," Milito said. "They're always opening big holes for me and allowing me to get into the open field."