The Kingwood Lions fell short of victory Friday night for the first time this season, losing to Escambia Academy, 36-14.

The Lions trailed by a thin 14-7 margin at halftime, but Kingwood’s stellar offense could not jumpstart itself in the second half.

&8221;They kept our offense off the field all night,&8220; Kingwood head coach Jerry Stearns said. &8221;They basically ran the ball down our throats.&8220;

In a season where the Lions have dominated opponents offensively, Friday night’s loss proved to be uncharacteristic of Stearns’ ball club.

The Lions’ backfield

rushed for 64 yards on 12 carries while quarterback Andrew Pearce completed 5-of-15 passes for 106 yards. Pearce, however, was intercepted three times in the game.

&8221;Escambia is a very good football team,&8220; Stearns said. &8221;They played a very good ballgame.&8220;

The Lions finished with 11 first downs compared to Escambia’s 30.

John Butts finished with 39 yards rushing on five carries while receiver Cody Owens had three catches for 89 yards.

Lakin Spinks and freshman Ethan Abbott combined for nine tackles each on the defensive side of the ball.

The Lions return home this week to host Taylor Road in their homecoming game.

Despite the loss, Stearns said his team remains confident in its ability to win games.

&8221;We’ll be working this week no different from how we have in the past,&8220; he said. &8221;We didn’t play one of our better games, but I don’t think it will affect us.&8220;