Middletown’s Aiden Barbosa wanted to make a statement in the Section 9 football playoffs.

Barbosa’s senior season didn’t start as he expected it. Defenses were double-teaming the wide receiver, trying to take him out of the game.

As the season unfolded, Middletown changed quarterbacks, going to Jo Jo Royal. Barbosa started seeing more man coverage and became one of the focal points of Middletown’s offense.

Not only did Barbosa rise to the occasion on offense, but he also made an impact on defense in Middletown’s 21-16 win over Newburgh Free Academy in the Section 9 Class AA semifinals last weekend.

Barbosa caught two touchdown passes, his fifth and sixth of the season, and intercepted two passes, his third and fourth on the year, to help Middletown earn a rematch against Monroe-Woodbur

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