Szmyt's kicks help Vernon Hills past Zion-Benton

A tremendous nonconference football battle took place at Rust-Oleum Field Friday night between Vernon Hills and Zion-Benton.

Nursing an 8-point lead after three quarters, the host Cougars got two clutch field goals from Andre Szmyt to extend the advantage and hold off a late swarm from the Zee-Bees 29-21. Szmyt's last field goal was from 47 yards with 5:49 remaining, and it had plenty to spare.

"I just stepped up and just looked at the uprights," said Szmyt, who kicked a 20 yarder earlier in the quarter. "I didn't really think about it too much and put it through."

Vernon Hills coach Bill Bellecomo and team gave Szmyt huge cheers during and after the game, signifying how vital he was to the victory.

"Our kicker did an outstanding job," said Bellecomo. "He not only gave us field position all night long, but he kicked a couple of big field goals for us. He's got a big leg and a great weapon."

Also vital to the victory for Vernon Hills (2-0) was the play of quarterback Jack Himel. Himel started the scoring with a 34-yard touchdown pass over the top to Drew Winegardner. Himel and Winegardner connected 8 times during the game, including securing big first downs for the Cougars.

"Me and Drew, we practice together a lot," said Himel, who also added a 2-yard touchdown run in the third quarter. "He ran good routes and got open."

Max Lyle added a 33 yard interception return for the Cougars defense that also garnered a safety from McNemon Vincent and a game-ending interception from Winegardner.

Zion-Benton (1-1) gave a great effort and received a standout performance from running back TJ Brister, who had a game-high 172 yards rushing. The majority of those yards coming on a 71-yard sprint for the only score of the third quarter.