You can say it was a dose of revenge or it was just an old-fashioned whooping, either way, it was a victory for Bethlehem Catholic last week when they trekked up north to Stroudsburg.

The Golden Hawks dispatched the Mounties 49-14 to gain some reprieve from last year’s defeat to Stroudsburg.

The win puts Becahi (7-1) at the top of the East Penn Conference North Division with a 7-0 division mark over Stroudsburg (6-2, 6-1), all but assuring Becahi the division crown as they head into this week’s contest against Allen (1-7).

More importantly, last week’s contest was a chance for the Hawks to play in a big game, their first one since their season opening loss to Liberty.

“I was very proud of our guys,” said head coach Joe Henrich. “That was probably the best game of the year for us. I think our kids were excited about playing in a big game. They were definitely focused and ready for the challenge.”

The Hawks built a 21-7 lead heading into halftime and then exploded with a 21-point fourth quarter to run away with the win.

Antwon Keenan rushed 19 times for 143 yards and three touchdowns, while quarterback Julian Spigner added 127 yards and two scores on the ground. Spigner was 8-of-18 for 120 yards passing as well.

The Hawks defense stifled Stroudsburg on the night, allowing only nine first downs and 194 yards of total offense.

“Our first team defense really only gave up seven points,” said Henrich. “It was good to see the guys play the type of football they did. If we can do that every week moving forward, it’ll be a good sign for us heading into the postseason.”

The Hawks currently sit atop the 3A power rankings after last week’s win.

A win over Allen this week will keep them in the hunt for the number one seed, before a week 10 showdown with Central Catholic (5-3).