BONNERS FERRY — The Bonners Ferry varsity football struggled on offense, but had an encouraging performance by the defense in a season-opening 14-0 loss to visiting Lincoln County High School on Friday, Aug. 28.

The Badgers were able to keep a steady pace for the first half of the game but began to show fatigue in the second half that eventually led to Lincoln County taking the lead with two touchdowns.

Among the highlights for the BFHS defense was a first-half interception by Wilson Newell and the play of Dillon Mai and Nick Cooper, who had notable tackles and provided pressure against Lincoln County.

According to Head Coach Travis Hinthorn, the first half was a well-played game by the Badgers, but the second half saw the team pushed around by Lincoln County; there was a clear distinction between the younger BFHS team and the older and bigger Lincoln County.

“We’re way better than last year,” Hinthorn said.”It’s frustrating to lose but we're trending the right way; we just got to focus on the positives, and the next couple of weeks, we will be all right.”

Lincoln County High School, of Eureka, Mont., has consistently dominated its league and has multiple state championships in Montana from the last four years.

Although Friday's opener was ultimately a loss, Hinthorn is excited at the team’s ability showcased in the first game against a highly ranked sports program.

“We're excited and moving in the right way” Hinthorn said.

The Badgers' next two games are against familiar Intermountain League foes Priest River and Kellogg, although they are being played as nonconference games. Bonners Ferry travels to face the Spartans at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4, then hosts the Wildcats on Friday, Sept. 11.