Deerfield clinches conference

Updated: October 22, 2011 12:32AM

Deerfield clinched the Central Suburban Conference North Division title with a convincing 45-21 victory over host Highland Park in a battle of conference unbeatens. It was the first conference championship for Deerfield since 2003. The Warriors (6-3, 5-0) amassed 478 yards on the ground. Leading 10-0 after one quarter, Deerfield put the game out of reach, scoring three second quarter touchdowns for a 31-0 halftime lead.

Fullback Tyler Vajdic had a career high 185 yards on 30 carries, with 24- and 1-yard touchdown runs. Wingback Marc Pagano scored twice on the ground (42, 16 yards), rushing for 106 yards on only eight carries, while wingback Ryan Adkins (4-101 yards) opened the scoring on a 68-yard run.

“We have so many weapons with the ball,” Vajdic said. “Where do I begin about the blocking? The seams were wide open.”

Deerfield quarterback Brad Holway scored on a 4-yard run, while kicker Michael Maki booted a 32-yard field goal. Both Highland Park (5-4, 4-1) and Deerfield entered the neighborhood showdown with five game winning streaks.

Highland Park got to within 31-14 on two third quarter touchdown passes from reserve quarterback Jason Goldstein. He threw a 10-yarder to Shawn Arrington and 12-yards to Ross Chukerman (five catches, 70 yards). The Giants other score was on a two-yard run by halfback Andrew Sledd (12 carries, 60 yards). Deerfield forced three turnovers to one for the Giants. Warriors interceptions by Michael Maki and Art Bess each led to scores.

Highland Park’s streak of eight straight playoff appearances is in jeopardy with its 5-4 record and only 31 playoff points (opponents wins).

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