Maine South Drops Kits With Early Knockout Punch

Maine South threw an early knockout punch, pouring in three touchdowns in the first quarter, and cruised to a 41-0 Homecoming victory over Evanston’s football team Friday night in Park Ridge.

The Wildkits (2-4 overall) never got untracked while watching their Central Suburban League South division record even out at 1-1.

The defending division champion Hawks, who haven’t lost to ETHS since 1999, scored on their first three possessions and improved to 4-2 overall, 2-0 in league play. Junior quarterback Luke Leongas completed 9-of-13 passes for 202 yards and 3 touchdowns, and Dan Lazic also threw a TD pass for the winners.

Leongas connected with Ryan Kilburg (37 yards) and Connor Leyden (13 yards) for first quarter scores and Mike Sajienko added a 1-yard scoring run before the Wildkits knew what hit them. After that, Evanston lost 5 fumbles as the hosts built a running clock halftime advantage of 41-0.

Quadre Nicholson (10 carries for 60 yards) and Jamarhe Bowen (12 carries for 41 yards) led the Evanston attack.

“Maine South came out sharp on offense and really executed well,” said Evanston head coach Mike Burzawa. “You have to give them credit for the way they came out swinging. There are no excuses. As players and coaches, we have to look in the mirror and fix what needs fixing.

“We’ve still got a chance to make the (Illinois High School Association) state playoffs if we win out. We’ve got a big test against New Trier next week. Everyone is facing elimination right now and their backs are to the wall, just like ours. It’s a must-win situation.”