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The football team dropped its season opener to the Paint Branch Panthers Friday night, falling 46–7.

The Vikings fell behind early in the game, allowing two Panther touchdowns in the first quarter—including a 70 yard score.

After another Paint Branch score in the second quarter, the Vikings responded with a touchdown of their own: a 33-yard catch in double coverage from running back Gunnar Morton. The team’s lone scoring play cut the Vikings’ deficit to 12 points.

However, the Vikes allowed a touchdown just seconds before halftime to trail 25–7 heading into the locker room.

The Panthers carried their momentum into the second half, outscoring the Vikings 21–0 and forcing two interceptions.

Receiver and defensive back Jack McClelland said that the team needs to strengthen their defensive coverage, especially on longer plays.

“We want to improve on not giving up big plays, and communicating on defense,” he said.

Despite that, McClelland said that the team was able to rush the opposing quarterback well—something he hopes the team continues to do in games to come.

“We put some pressure on the quarterback and made him rush some passes, which helped us,” he said.

The Vikings will look to rebound when they host the Landon Bears Friday at 6:30.