Cougar Football takes second at State

POCATELLO — The Firth Cougars take second place after coming up short against the West Side Pirates in the State 2A championship game Thursday.

Despite a strong effort from the Cougars (9-3), the Pirates’ (11-0) defense refused to allow them much yardage. Even with the Cougars’ defensive stopping power, they ultimately lost 33-13.

On the first play of the game, West Side scored a touchdown giving them a 6-0 lead at the beginning of the first quarter.

Later on in the first quarter Firth turned the ball over deep in their own territory, setting the Pirates up for another touchdown.

In the second quarter Firth finally scored, only needing one more Touchdown to tie up the score. However, from that point on West Side controlled the ballgame, capitalizing on Firth’s errors and turnovers.

The Cougars didn’t score against until late in the 4th quarter but by then the Pirates had a commanding lead of 33-13.

While the Cougars were ultimately defeated, they fought the entire game and never gave up.

“You have nothing to be ashamed of, you had an amazing year.” Head Coach Jordan Bartlet told his team.

Other members of the coaching staff told the players to be proud, and that preparation starts tomorrow for next season.

Although the Cougars came up short, the players were able to take away life lessons from their season.

“We don’t always get what we want, but you can hold your head high because you did your very best,” another member of the coaching staff said.