It was a scene that was missed by high school football fans for months. The marching band playing school songs, teenagers and proud parents flooding the stands wearing their school colors. The stage was set for the first football game of the season.

The game was a long awaited, and ultimately disappointing rematch against SM East. Last season opener, Northwest was shut out 24-0 by SM East.

In the first half the only touchdown SM East scored was on a kickoff return, and the NW defense shut down the Lancers on offense. At the half, the score was SM East 7 Northwest 3.

“We had great speed and consistency on defense. That has been our strong suit so far,” senior Jared Shafer said of Northwest’s play in the first half.

Junior Elliot Alpert also had positive feedback after the first half.

“We had a strong start. Our quarter back played well. We have a real chance to win in the second half,” Alpert said.

Despite having a solid first half, NW fans were reminded of how they felt this time last year. SM East had many impressive screen passes that stretched the field and ran the NW defense ragged.

SM East scored two quick touchdowns in the second half taking a 21 to 3 lead. And finally they put the nail in the coffin with a fourth quarter touchdown pass. The Cougars lost to SM East for the third straight year.

“I am not worried about the loss because typical NW football teams work hard and get better as the season goes on,” Shafer said.