By ANDREW GOODMAN

Herald Sports Writer

HOPATCONG — After weeks of anticipation, Joe Martinek broke the state's rushing record.

The Hopatcong senior running back shattered the mark in the second quarter. On his 12th carry of the game, he scampered for 33 yards down the right sideline. Before that run, Martinek only needed two yards to top the mark.

So Martinek made sure he broke the record emphatically. As for the run, Martinek was modest — as usual — saying there was a ton a of room to run on the play.

"The holes were right there," Martinek said. "I couldn't ask for anything more."

But he got a lot more. After the smashed the record, the game was stopped and there was a presentation at midfield in recognition of New Jersey's all-time leading rusher. Martinek's parents and his brother were part of the on-field celebration. Martinek's teammates displayed their respect and admiration for him by leading the cheers during the ceremony.

Martinek finished with 229 yards on 23 carries and three touchdowns. The first score came on the opening play from scrimmage, when Martinek broke loose for 64 yards until he reached paydirt. His other touchdowns were from 3 and 2 yards.

Heading into the game, Martinek only needed 134 yards to break the old mark of 6,720. It was set by Keyport's Kenny Cattouse in 2003.

The Rutgers-bound Martinek now has 1,271 yards on the season and 6,816 for his career.

Martinek's performance was too much to overcome for Kittatinny, as the Chiefs (5-1) won, 28-7. Martinek outgained Kittatinny (4-2), 229-107.

On his special night, Martinek also had two sacks.

Martinek's final carry came in the third quarter, but the outcome was no longer in doubt.