The Belgreen Bulldogs did not win in their first time back on the gridiron in decades, but they did make history, memories and have a lot of fun.

“It was a very emotional night for the players,” said Belgreen coach Jonathan Raper. “They were very excited to finally get to play, and very nervous, too. We had a great crowd at the game, and they were loud.”

The Bulldogs lone touchdown came when Landon Cox intercepted a pass and returned it 90 yards to the one-yard line before Will King punched it in for the score.

“I was just happy to make the play and really excited,” said Cox. “It was exciting to get down there and help set up the first points for the program.”

“It is awesome to be a part of the team,” said Cox. “There have been a lot of guys who have come through Belgreen who wanted to play football but couldn’t. I am just proud to represent our school and hopefully it leads to some great players and teams in Belgreen’s future.

King said he thought Cox was going to get that first touchdown on the long interceptions return.

“I thought Landon was going to score on a pick-six but he came up just short,” said King. “I was just honored to get the ball and carry it on in to score.”

“It was an honor to put on that jersey that said Belgreen on it,” he added.

“Will had several good runs Friday night,” Raper said. “He did an outstanding job on the touchdown, with very good blocking in front of him. The team was very excited when we scored.”

Belgreen will open the season officially Thursday at Cherokee. Under AHSAA regulations, the Bulldogs will only be able to play a junior high and junior varsity schedule for two years.