Vanguards win fourth straight

Back on Sept. 13, when Wisconsin Heights’ 8-man football team had lost two straight games, Vanguards coach Connor Herrling made a bold prediction. “I told this team four weeks ago that we are going to win out,” Herrling said. Now, Herrling and the Vanguards are just one win from making that happen. Heights routed Wonewoc/Weston, 69-0, last Friday for its fourth straight win. The Vanguards improved to 5-2 heading into Friday’s season finale against Belmont at 7 p.m. “The boys came ready to play,” Herrling said. “This football program needs respect put on it. “We came into the season ranked 46th in 8-man. We are now 11th in the state. We are turning heads, improving every day, every week. I am so happy for these guys.” There was a lot to be happy about last Friday. Once again, running back Cody Blicharz enjoyed a record-setting evening. Blicharz set a school record with seven — yes, seven — touchdown runs and piled up 307 rushing yards on 23 carries (13.3 average). Quinn Payne completed 12-of-18 passes for 212 yards and two touchdowns. Reed Adler caught six passes for 103 yards and a touchdown. John Reader led the defensive charge with 14 tackles, two sacks, and a blocked punt, while Damian Henning had 13 tackles, two sacks and a blocked punt for a touchdown. Fin Hinderman added six tackles and an interception for a touchdown. “Records being broken, points are getting put up,” Herrling said. “The defense had its second shutout of the season. It’s just been fun.”