As the Appleton North’s football team and their fans watched the fireworks go off after tonight’s game, it was tough to remember what was being celebrated: homecoming, the amazing game they played, locking-up a playoff position, or their star running back setting a new record?
Tonight Appleton North played one of their finest games to date and it was not only their defense, which is one of the state’s best, but also their offense who played at their very best. Furthermore, their offense was more than just running back Steven Lichtfuss. Even though Lichtfuss is the first Fox Valley Association runner to put up more than 1,000 yards in a season (he ran for 196 yards and three touchdowns, bringing his season totals to 1,145 years and 14 touchdowns), Appleton North’s offense proved tonight they have more than one play maker including quarterback Andrew Giaimo, tight end Nathan VanHandel and wide receiver Courtney Watkins. After the game Giaimo said, “This was the best offensive game we've had all year." It was their entire offense that helped put 28 points on the board for Appleton North.
Appleton North’s coach Rob Salm has been working hard to balance their offense and make sure it does not become Lichtfuss’ offense. "We've been trying to diversify more on offense because you don't want to just count on No. 21 (Lichtfuss)," said Salm. "That's a pretty good option, but you have to diversify if you want to take the next step in the playoffs."
Appleton North’s defense proved why it has been and continues to be one of one of the state’s best. They were able to limit Oshkosh North’s running back, Isaiah Gray who is the Fox Valley Association's fourth-leading rusher to a meager 47 yards. Appleton North only allowed Oshkosh North to accumulate 117 total yards and ultimately limited them to12 points.
It was the joint combination of Appleton North’s offense and defense that allowed them to remain perfect with a 28-12 win over Oshkosh North. With a slippery field caused by sporadic rain showers, they could not have been a better night for a football game, especially one where Appleton North was able to lock up a playoff position only five games into the season.
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