Batavia Powers Past Maine South in Thrilling Season Opener

Batavia High School kicked off the high school football season with a commanding 49-35 victory over Maine South on Friday, August 21, 2026. Playing on their home turf in Batavia, Illinois, the Batavia Bulldogs delivered a strong offensive performance to secure the win in a high-scoring battle against the visiting Maine South Hawks.

Maine South established an early lead on its opening drive when Matthew Schlenhardt scored a touchdown. Batavia answered late in the first quarter. Quarterback Michael Vander Luitgaren connected with Brennon Zeng, who caught the pass at the 40-yard line and ran it in for the score. Kicker Christian Balok added the extra point to tie the game. Maine South struck again before the quarter ended, regaining a 14-7 advantage.

The Bulldogs dominated the second quarter, scoring 21 points to build momentum. Vander Luitgaren found wide receiver Darin Ashiru for two touchdown passes during the period. Maine South briefly tied the game when Donaldson broke three tackles on a cross-field run. However, Batavia running back Liam Moran broke through the defense for a rushing touchdown with under a minute left in the half, giving Batavia a 28-21 lead at halftime.

Rain fell during the third quarter, creating slick field conditions that tested both teams. Batavia adapted quickly to the weather. Running back Charlie Rosengren powered through the slick turf for a rushing touchdown to increase the lead. Maine South added a score late in the third to narrow the gap, but Batavia responded in the fourth quarter with another touchdown by Zeng.

Maine South running back Donaldson added a late rushing touchdown for the Hawks with 4:36 remaining. Batavia then controlled the clock through the final whistle to finish off the 49-35 victory.