Defense shines, but Port can’t score

Save for two big plays, the football teams from Port Washington and Kettle Moraine Lutheran high schools still might be trying to break a scoreless tie.

A first-quarter interception and a 79-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter were all KML needed to top Port at home last Friday, 14-0.

“We played pretty well defensively except for that last one that squeaked out,” coach John Bunyan said of his team’s effort before the big run.

Outside linebacker Michael Bunyan recovered a Charger fumble in the third quarter to stop one scoring threat, and inside linebacker J.D. Brahm made a fourth-quarter interception on Port’s 36 yard-line, pinning the ball against his bent leg as he twisted and went to his knees to make the catch.

Port held KML to 2-for-5 passing for eight yards and an interception.

But Port’s offense looked like a car driving with its parking brake engaged. In 51 plays, only four fewer than the Chargers ran, the Pirates accumulated three first downs, eight fewer than their opponents. Port gained  150 yards to KML’s 287.

Sophomore running back Lleyton Allen racked up 21 carries but only had 32 yards to show for it, often having to change direction before he got to the line of scrimmage.

Patrick Lippe caught six passes for 47 yards and Michael Bunyan caught three for 44.

When Port was able to move the ball, timely penalties erased large gains, such as blocks in the back or a personal foul. Port drew nine flags for 91 yards.

“The penalties are just hurting us,” Bunyan said.

On a rainy, windy, cool night that turned cold after a short hailstorm, the teams combined for nine fumbles. Port fumbled six times and lost two. Allen and sophomore quarterback Nate Uselding each fumbled three times.

Uselding went 13-for-21 passing for 112 yards and two interceptions.

KML’s Levi Vagnini intercepted a pass and returned it to Port’s 3 yard-line in the first quarter. Joey Ehlke ran it in on the next play. In the fourth quarter, Ehlke broke free for a 79-yard touchdown run. He had 150 yards rushing on 17 carries.

Port did get a nifty punt return from Eli Perez, the second straight week he played well on special teams.

Port, 0-4, plays at 0-2 Kewaskum on Friday.

“I’m proud of our kids. We’re getting better and we’re working,” Bunyan said.