Fondy Loses Another FVA Heartbreaker

For the third time in conference play, Fond du Lac found itself on the wrong end of a heartbreaking finish as Neenah scored with just two seconds remaining to hand the Cardinals a 22-20 Fox Valley Association defeat Friday night.

In a game dominated by defense for much of the evening, neither offense could find much rhythm in the first half. Neenah finally broke through late in the second quarter, scoring just before halftime to take a 7-0 lead into the locker room.

Fond du Lac responded quickly in the second half thanks to a big play from Brady Schmidt. The Cardinals’ running back burst through the line and raced 57 yards for a touchdown, tying the game at 7-7.

The Cardinals grabbed the momentum and later took their first lead of the night when Eli Michalewicz powered his way to the end zone on a 22-yard touchdown run, putting Fond du Lac ahead 14-7.

Despite Neenah battling back, Fond du Lac still held a 20-15 lead late in the fourth quarter and appeared poised to secure a crucial FVA victory. However, the Rockets had one final drive left.

Starting at their own 6-yard line with no timeouts remaining, Neenah methodically marched down the field on a dramatic 13-play drive. With time running out, the Rockets completed a touchdown pass with just two seconds left on the clock to stun the Cardinals and escape with a 22-20 victory.

The loss is another tough one for Fond du Lac, which has now seen late-game heartbreak on multiple occasions this season.

The Cardinals will look to bounce back next Friday night when they travel to take on Kimberly. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m., with coverage on KFIZ.

Post Game comments from Head Coach Sam Plucker