It was Opening Night for several local and area high school football teams last night.
Manitowoc Lincoln was narrowly defeated by Appleton West 14-to-12 at Ron Rubick Municipal Athletic Field.
The host Shipbuilders outgained the Terrors 318-to-185, but a 70-yard kickoff return in the 4th quarter and 2-point after touchdown kicks made the difference in the game.
Lincoln senior quarterback Brett Prange had 2-rushing touchdowns while amassing 166 yards on 28-carries. He also completed 6-of-16 through the air for 97-yards and no interceptions.
Lincoln’s defense had 2-picks.
Coach Greg Enz’s team had 2 chances to win it in the final minute when they had an apparent TD nullified by an offensive pass interference and a pass breakup on 4th down moments later.
Speedy and shifty Appleton West junior Ben Vallefsky was a thorn in the side of the Ships all night long as he scored on the go-ahead kickoff return and gained 135 yards on 24-carries.
Manitowoc Lincoln travels to De Pere next Thursday night.
Elsewhere in high school football last night Bay Port beat Middleton 26-14 and the Evergreens of D.C. Everest doubled up Green Bay Preble 42-20.
