By Joe Bachman

WISCONSIN RAPIDS — After Assumption quarterback Jake Sullivan went down in last night’s game, it was none other than “Big” Joe Grundhoffer who stepped up to lead the Royals to a win in their home opener.

The Royals quarterback still picked up 80 yards on 12 carries with three touchdowns, as the Royals started the game hot, leading 21-6 after the first quarter. Necedah soon slowly closed in, though not by much, as the Royals held a 34-20 lead over the Cardinals at halftime.

After a scoreless third quarter, Necedah closed in to bring it to a one-score game late in the fourth quarter and looked to tie the game at 42 — that is until Joe Grundhoffer stepped in. Grundhoffer made a last minute interception at the goaline to seal victory for the Royals, 42-34.

The Royals were led by Cole Statz in the running game, who put up two touchdowns on 12 carries for 114 yards. Craig Elsen and Teddy Ashbeck combined for 22 carries for 87 yards, contributing to a 325-yard rushing game on the night.

Next week, the Royals will head to Blanchardville for a Friday night showdown with Pecatonica/Argyle.