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The Florala Wildcats fell behind early by three touchdowns in the season opener but fell short, 21-12, to the Houston County Lions Friday night.

FHS Head Coach Chris Littleton said he was proud of how well his team battled back from the deficit.

“We had a lot of penalties and errors in the first quarter and made a lot of mistakes. There were some things we will have to revisit and make some changes then go back to work,” he said.

Littleton added the defense played a well in the second half.

“We had some opportunities, but the defense played well and stepped up to create a lot of turnovers. Zane Weeks had a fumble recovery, and both Colby Strickland John Howell had interceptions,” he said.

Florala only trailed 7-0 after the first quarter, but Houston County took a 21-0 lead in the second. Austin Howell had a 55-yard touchdown reception to bring the Wildcats within 21-6 at halftime.

Johan Zamora had a 3-yard touchdown run that brought FHS within nine points, but HCHS (2-0) held on for the narrow win.

Florala (0-1) begins region play Friday, Sept. 3 at Samson (1-1).