In a display of determination and resiliency, the Bethel Park Black Hawks defeated the Laurel Highlands Mustangs in a 2-1 comeback to secure their third-straight section title Thursday night.

The title win builds on a sole championship victory in 2023 and a shared crown with the Thomas Jefferson Jaguars in 2024.

This becomes an even more impressive feat for Bethel Park when recognizing the other talent within 3A Section II.

Alongside Laurel Highlands and Thomas Jefferson, teams like the Albert Gallatin Colonials, McKeesport Tigers, Ringgold Rams, South Fayette Lions, and Trinity Hillers provided the Black Hawks a challenge.

Although the game did not begin favorably for Bethel Park, by the end of the first half, they were trailing 1-0.

However, despite the setback, the team regained composure and was prepared to rise to the occasion in the second half.

Bethel Park soon leveled the playing field, as No. 17 Josh Pantin scored eight minutes into the second half.

With fans on the edge of their seats, and the clock winding down, it came down to a game-winning goal from No. 21 Youssef Benrabia with 94 seconds left in regulation.

The Youth Night showdown highlighted the team’s ability to compete in high-pressure situations.

Head coach Doug Fink commented on the game, saying, “Even though I don’t think we played great in the first half, we battled back and picked up the tempo in the second half. We were able to combine better with our passing, which ultimately led to our two goals.”

Looking ahead, Bethel Park now shifts their focus to the final section game of the year away against Ringgold.

This comes just two nights before their final regular-season game of the year against the Canon-McMillan Big Macs.

These games will be crucial for Bethel Park, as they look to maintain their built-up momentum heading into the playoffs.

With a third section title secured, Bethel Park is determined and motivated to make another deep run in the playoffs, to redeem their semi-final exit from last year.

When asked about his feelings heading into the playoffs, senior defender No. 24 Jonah Stearman said, “I feel confident in our team and our ability to do well.”

“It’s going to be a hard-fought battle through it, but it’s going to be fun going against harder competition,” Stearman added.

Fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how the history-making team will fare in the WPIAL playoffs and finish their season.