Joliet Catholic finds a four-leaf clover vs. St. Patrick
By Tina Akouris takouris@suntimes.com October 2, 2012 1:00PM
Updated: November 4, 2012 6:16AM
Saturday’s 49-13 victory over St. Patrick at Hanson Stadium could wind up being an important day for Joliet Catholic.
Wingback Ty Isaac played a full game in the backfield for the first time this season. He rushed for four touchdowns and 287 yards on 23 carries (12.5 yards per carry), and said his right shoulder felt “90 to 95 percent.”
The defense came up with a big effort against an offense that was averaging more than 28 points, having scored 52 against Bloomington, 40 against Notre Dame and 21 against Marist. The Hilltoppers limited the Shamrocks to 222 total yards and seven first downs.
Cornerback Grant Harrison has returned, with a cast on his broken hand, and so has linebacker Clayton Smith. Linebacker Zach Rezin should return soon from a shoulder injury.
Inauspicious return
After missing two games with high ankle sprains, Minooka quarterback Joe Carnagio returned in a 14-10 loss at Plainfield South, going 8-of-12 for 103 yards and two end zone interceptions. Backup quarterback Shane Briscoe had the Indians on a two-game winning streak during Carnagio’s absence.
Minooka (2-4) needs to win out to make the playoffs.
An aberration
Plainfield South coach Ken Bublitz thinks Minooka’s 0-3 start was atypical and expects the Indians to rebound.
“They’re a good football team and they’ll be heard from,” Bublitz said. “But you never know what’s going to happen, and they’re going to have to play well every week from now on like they have a playoff game — but we do too.”
Ultimate praise
from the opposition
At least two opposing coaches have heaped praise on Plainfield East linebacker Brennen Rompa. East lost to rival Plainfield North 28-14 and beat Oswego East 33-6, and both coaches said Rompa had stellar games.
Oswego East coach Tyson LeBlanc had told Rompa his performance was one of the best defensive showings LeBlanc had seen.
Rompa also scored a touchdown in that victory, East’s lone win of the season so far.
