A controversial football game between Newark Central High School and Roselle High School was played Thursday, despite parents?s complaints recent violence made the city too dangerous.

The start time for the game was bumped up to 4:30 p.m. from the original 7:00 p.m.

Parents argued for the postponement saying Thursday is a night of trouble since it falls before Halloween.

?Most of us came from Newark or Irvington or the East Orange area,? Thomas Gourdine, a parent, says. ?But on mischief night, things get a little more dangerous.?

The deputy mayor of Newark met with concerned parents and assured them the city would provide police protection to ensure their safety and the safety of the students. According to parents, there were more police officers than usual, which made them feel safer.