In a muddy dogfight for a playoff berth on “Senior Day” at Dahl Field, the Vikings lost a true defensive struggle against the Concrete Lions, 14-6, on Oct. 27.

“The seniors battled hard and represented themselves well,” said Coach Scott Harris. “I am proud of them this season.”

The Viking offense clicked in the first quarter with runs from quarterback Daniel Briggs and receiver Devon Stanzione, leading to a 7-yard touchdown run by fullback Jake Zier, opening the game 6-0, after a failed extra point kick.

Forcing a turn over on downs in the second quarter, a stout Viking defense stopped the driving Lions’ double wing assault on the Viking 7-yard line. On the first offensive play, Zier cracked a 90-yard run down the sideline before being tackled just short of the end zone. But penalties pushed the Vikings backwards and forced Orcas into their ineffective passing game.

By the third quarter, the Lions’ steady running game finally cracked the tough Viking defense for a score, but the two-point conversion failed as the Viking defense held. The Orcas defensive continued with impressive defensive stands as the Lions rarely punted on fourth down. With the Viking offense unable to maintain a drive, the game remained tied 6-6 into the fourth quarter until a determined Lion blocked a Viking punt, leaving Concrete in excellent field position. Scoring shortly thereafter, the Lions added a two-point conversion.

The Vikings, out of the playoffs, play their last game  on Thursday in Darrington.