Minooka and Yorkville have long been strong in the world of sports, with the two communities having a long-standing rivalry.

On Sept. 12, Minooka played Yorkville in a varsity football game. The game’s score was 14-13, with Minooka losing. 

In this game, Minooka found success in the run.

“We’re a running team, our run opens our pass game,” said Minooka running back Nathen Gonzelez.

Gonzalez had a 34-yard carry, and quarterback Zane Caves had 9 carries for 20 yards

Minooka started the game off strong by forcing Yorkville to a punt on their first possession. Minooka then had a strong first touchdown by a 10-yard rush down the middle by Gonzalez. Yorkville quickly fired back with a 12-yard touchdown pass to end the quarter.

In the second quarter, Minooka and Yorkville showcased strong defensive efforts, with neither team scoring.

In the bottom of the third quarter, Gonzalez ran it in 9 yards, practically carrying two defenders on his back, and not going down until he was in the end zone.

To end the quarter, Minooka pushed Yorkville back to their goal line, and Yorkville made a 27-yard pass.

Minooka started with the ball in the fourth but quickly had to punt to Yorkville. Minooka would later force a turnover on downs, but to no avail, having to punt the ball 11 minutes later.

 Yorkville ended the game with a beautiful 35-yard passing touchdown to make the score 14-13. Without enough time and Yorkville forced a turnover on downs and stalled their way to victory.

An unfortunate note,  Caves suffered a season-ending injury during this game. 

This game was, without a doubt, a great matchup with both teams battling for possession and putting up a great deal of passion on each side of the ball.