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Most unlikely state title matchup produces most unlikely champion as Winneconne wins Division 4 crown

11/22/2013, 11:00am CST
By Travis Wilson

In the most unlikely title game in state history, Winneconne became the most unlikely champion with a 28-14 win over Platteville for the Division 4 crown.

The Wolves went just 4-5 during the regular season against a challenging schedule, but proved they belonged all playoffs and looked every bit the deserving state champion.

Platteville actually jumped out first, using several deep passes to move the ball quickly and score on an 11-yard catch in the corner of the end zone by Derek Schambow. It appeared the Hillmen's passing attack caught Winneconne off-guard, as the Wolves likely prepared for heavy doses of Platteville running back William Cooley. However, a foot injury suffered last week limited him to only defense.

Winneconne would answer back quickly, as a 74-yard kickoff return by Peter Buyeske setup a 3-yard scoring plunge from Mitchell Markert. 

Riley Kallas took over from there, scoring on a 1-yard run late in the first quarter, running for a 58-yard score in the second quarter, and adding a 39-yard touchdown pass from Mitchel Fenrich early in the third.

Holding a 28-7 lead heading into the fourth quarter, Winneconne allowed a 15-yard score by Platteville but used a strong running game to control the clock most of the way, closing out a 28-14 win.

Mitchell Merkert ran for 120 yards and a touchdown, while Kallas added 58 yards and two scores. Fenrich completed 8 of 12 passes for 132 yards and 1 touchdown, with Kallas catching 6 of those throws for 120 yards and a score.

Filling in for the injured William Cooley, Jacob Bernhardt ran for just 31 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries. 

The teams combined for 9 losses coming into the game, the most of any title game matchup in state history. The previous high was 5.

Winneconne claims the first football title in school history, while Platteville will take home its first runner-up trophy after winning a title in their only prior championship appearance in 1983.

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