The Stevenson Patriots hosted the Lake Zurich Bears on Homecoming Eve 2018, seeking vengeance after being blown out last year 28-0 at home to those same Bears. The Patriots, spearheaded by standout linebacker Maema Njongmeta ‘19 entered the game fresh off of a 51-14 win at Zion-Benton while boasting a 4-0 record, allowing only nine points per game. The Bears, led by senior quarterback Matt McGraw, looked to shake off a disappointing 24-7 home loss to Lake Forest.

In a game that came down to the wire, Lake Zurich spoiled Stevenson’s annual homecoming blackout night as they emerged victorious in overtime, 23-20.

Unsurprisingly, Njongmeta stood out for the Patriots as he recorded two sacks to go with eight more tackles, continuing his phenomenal season for Stevenson. On offense, it was tailback Jean Marc-Etienne ‘20 who got the Patriots off to a quick start, with a couple of huge runs.

The Patriots took a 10-3 lead going into the closing minutes of the first half, but Lake Zurich wouldn’t go into the half without a fight. Lake Zurich went downfield and scored on a circus catch that ended as a touchdown.

While Lake Zurich fumbled the ball five times, Stevenson rarely capitalized on those drops, only recovering one of the five. Lake Zurich often caught many breaks, and took advantage as they went and scored on a late drive that tied the game with 25 seconds remaining.

The Patriots’ misfortune continued into overtime, as their offense was riddled with flag after flag and eventually settled for a field goal. Lake Zurich was stuffed by the Patriot defense on both first and second down. But on third down, the Bears punched the ball into the end zone, completing the stunning comeback win.

As Lake Zurich (3-2) looks to build off their success at Libertyville (1-4) next week, the Patriots (4-1) hope to get back on track at Mundelein (2-3). Luckily for both teams, they boast better records than their opponents, and both have loads of energy and plenty of momentum on their sides.