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Niles North football coach Mark Egofske was concerned about the running back position heading into the season.

He’s feeling much better these days, especially after his team beat Maine East 56-13 Friday.

Senior Kris Achim rushed for 160 yards and three touchdowns on 11 carries to lead the way in the Central Suburban North opener for both teams.

“This was the first time I’ve ever done something major like this,” Achim said. “Hopefully I can keep it up. It all came from the line. I just followed the blocks and ran as fast as I could. I just wanted to make sure I could get as far as I could. It’s all effort.”

Niles North (3-2 overall, 1-0 CSL North) led 14-0 after one quarter and 28-7 at halftime.

Achim, who is also a starting safety, had just two carries in the second half, but one was a 35-yard touchdown.

“I’m really thrilled with his effort tonight,” Egofske said. “I think we have a running back.”

Tony Granato had two rushing touchdowns, while Johnny Walker and Billy Voitik also had rushing scores and Vincent Rodriguez scored on a 15-yard fumble recovery.

Almar Dankha recovered a fumble in the end zone and Javed Lukovic had a 3-yard touchdown run for Maine East (2-3, 0-1).

“We have to come back and get something positive going,” Maine East coach Gabe Corey said. “I still think we have some wins in us. We’ll bounce back.”

Pick up your local Pioneer Press newspaper on Thursday to read more about the Niles North and Maine East football teams.