November 5, 2026
North Union’s Wyatt Arver (21) looks to avoid a tackle while picking up yardage against Vermilion. The Wildcats’ season came to an end with a 35-21 loss to the Sailors in the opening round of the Division V state playoffs. (Photo submitted)
Vermilion’s late-game touchdowns lead to North Union’s loss during opening round of state grid playoffs
By BOB PUTMAN
North Union head football coach Nick Hajjar had a pretty simple explanation at the conclusion of Friday night’s Division V, Region 18 playoff game at Vermilion.
“I know it is easy to say this, but we did not make enough plays when we needed to,” Hajjar said.
Scoring 21 points in the last five minutes of the fourth quarter, Vermilion rallied for a 35-21 win, ending the Wildcats’ season at 7-4.
North Union took a 21-14 lead with two minutes left in the third quarter following a 14-yard, up-the-middle touchdown run by Wyatt Arver.
The Sailors (8-4) came back early in the fourth quarter to get into Wildcat territory.
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