Triton Central built a 14-0 lead over Class 3A, No. 11 Batesville Friday at Mendenhall Field but did not score in the second half and suffered its first season-opening loss since 2004.
The highly-regarded Bulldogs shut down the Tigers’ ground game and scored twice in the second half to leave Fairland with a 21-14 victory.
“They are bigger and stronger and a very talented team,” said Triton Central head coach Tim Able.
After a scoreless first quarter, Triton Central quarterback Sam Collier rushed for a touchdown and threw for another, connecting with Zeke Robertson for a 14-0 lead.
Batesville got on the scoreboard ahead of halftime to cut the lead to 14-7 then shut down the Tigers in the second half while scoring in each quarter.
“We have to get the run game going. We have to find a way to get it done,” said Able.
Class 2A, No. 13 Triton Central travels to Hamilton Heights, who suffered a 29-20 loss at Lapel Friday.
The Tigers will try to avoid starting the season 0-2 for the first time since 2004.
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