The Bulldogs started their season with a 28-21 win under the lights Friday night against Wareham.

“I’m very happy the way we battled,” said head coach Justin Kogler.

After starting off last year, Kogler's first with Old Rochester, with five losses, he's relieved to have a much more positive beginning this September.

“I’m proud of our team. I think the kids played hard,” he said. “At certain times last year I’m not sure we always played as hard as we did tonight.”

The Bulldogs had to keep their wits about them on Friday as they stayed just one touchdown ahead of the Vikings throughout much of the second half.

“They’re a really good football team,” Kogler said.

He noted that Wareham halfback Isaac Nascimento kept the team on its toes.

Throughout the game, the ORR coaches could be heard yelling onto the field, “Watch Nascimento!”

“He gets in the open field, and there’s nothing you can do about it,” said Kogler.

Going forward, he said the team will need to work on its defense.

“We've got to tackle better, but I thought the defense did well.”

Next Friday the Bulldogs go to New Bedford Vocational.