Kahn's second half lifts Stevenson

Updated: March 22, 2011 5:12PM

Nathan Kahn didn't have a yard to his name in the first half.

But the Stevenson fullback picked up steam when his number was called, collecting 70 yards on 17 carries to help the host Patriots finish off a 21-0 victory over New Trier Friday in an IHSA Class 8A state playoff opener.

Kahn put together a series of bruising runs after intermission, including a 1-yard touchdown run late in the third quarter that gave Stevenson a 21-point cushion.

"I knew we'd have to grind it out," Kahn said. "Our philosophy is pass to score and run to win."

"Nate is our power back," said Patriots coach Bill McNamara. "Once he gets going, he's tough to stop."

Kahn shared the glory of the victory with the offensive line of Jake Hurcombe, Ryan Levine, Jonathan Bash, Brandon Weber and Michael Crowley.

"The line was pushing them (Trevians) back three yards," Kahn noted. "All I had to do was run straight ahead with the ball and fall forward for five yards."

Stevenson (10-0) also enjoyed the work of halfbacks Anthony Bozin (15-113, TD) and Joe Cassata (13-99, TD).

The Trevians (5-5) managed to stay in the contest with a solid defensive effort. New Trier defensive back Scott Schoder made a big interception in the third quarter, wrestling the ball away from Patriot receiver Steve Salata in his own end zone.

However, the Trevians were unable to move the ball on the following drive. A short time later, Kahn scored the insurance touchdown.

Stevenson, which owns a No. 1 seed in its half of the bracket, advances to the second round against the winner of Saturday's game between Warren and South Elgin.

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