The Estevan Steelers came tantalizingly close to their first victory of the season on Monday.
Calder Clark and Kaleb Memory each scored a touchdown in the Steelers' Labour Day Classic, a 14-12 loss to the Regina Griffins.
It's significant progress for the Steelers, who were shut out 67-0 and 35-0 in their first two games.
"We played one heck of a game there. Our offence and defence were both clicking very well. We're starting to come together," said head coach Preston Majeran.
It was part of a recurring theme for Penta Completions Estevan Minor Football on the weekend, with the peewee Chargers earning their first victory of the season and the atom Miners scoring their first touchdown, all on the road.
Majeran said it was evident from the start on Monday that the Steelers had improved and that the difference showed in virtually every aspect of the game.
"Our defensive secondary has really improved. They're on the ball a lot more, they're starting to click a lot better reading the offensive plays," he said.
"Our offence is definitely coming together a lot better. Our offensive line anchored it really well. They're starting to give our quarterback some protection and opening up those holes for our running game.
"Our blocking a lot better, our passing game, receivers are catching balls they weren't in the first couple of games. Our defensive line is starting to get a lot more pressure on the quarterback when they need to."
The Steelers will host the Regina Renegades on Saturday at 2:30 p.m. Majeran said his squad gave the Renegades "a run for their money" last season and look to do the same this week.
