Lack of execution plagues Palatine in loss to Glenbrook South

Fireworks erupted after the final horn sounded on the homecoming game at Palatine High School in 2025.

Pirates fans burst into cheers at the postgame display. However, along with a steady rain that began falling as the second half got under way, a disappointing finish for Palatine dampened the spirits of the home faithful.

With the rain fell any chance at victory for coach Corey Olson’s Pirates (2-2), who suffered a 28-7 defeat to Glenbrook South (3-1) Friday night.

“We had our chances throughout the game,” Olson said. “Penalty here, missed field goal here, stalled drive in the red zone … We just didn’t execute.”

Despite a 35-yard field goal attempt at the end of the half that missed wide off the left upright, the Pirates trailed just 7-0 as the third quarter commenced.

Junior wide receiver Jayden Evans uncorked a 40-yard kickoff return to open the second half for Palatine. A splash play from Evans appeared to be the spark the Pirates needed, as a whirlwind drive that consisted of nine plays and five combined penalties ended in a 5-yard touchdown pass from senior quarterback Will Santiago to Evans to knot the score at seven.

Evans led the way offensively for Palatine, surpassing 100 yards from scrimmage in the absence of Princeton commit and senior athlete Kole Fager, who was sidelined due to injury.

Much to the delight of a packed Palatine student section, a light show followed Santiago’s scoring toss, and with the crowd at full tilt, momentum seemed fully in the hooks of the Pirates.

Signal-caller Andrew Bonvechio showed poise on the ensuing drive for Glenbrook South, leading his Titans 65 yards down the field, converting on fourth down and coming away with a touchdown.

Santiago and the Pirates offense answered with a trip to the red zone, but after an intercepted pass over the middle and an excellent return by the Titans defensive back, a 49-yard scamper the very next play gave Glenbrook South a 21-7 lead.

Another lengthy drive resulted in a turnover on downs for Palatine, which Bonvechio and the Titans answered with a 16-yard touchdown strike, his second of the day to wideout Parker Ward.

Although Palatine found success on the ground; Santiago finished with 108 rushing yards on 18 carries, an inability to establish a consistent passing attack hurt the Pirates.

“We were right there and then it just got away from us at the end,” Olson said. “We’ll all accept responsibility, we’ll tip our caps to Glenbrook South, they’re a good football team. [We’ll] try to get healthy for next week.”