MATTAPOISETT — The start of September means getting back to school and the end of summer for some. For others, turning the page to September means another thing: football season.

The Old Rochester Youth Football 14 and under team took the field just after noon on Sunday, Sept. 1, capping off a tripleheader of Bulldog games at David S. Hagan stadium.

The Bulldogs scored touchdowns on their first two possessions of the season to jump out to a 14-7 lead over the Boston Raiders, but struggled to get anything going for the remaining three quarters, ultimately falling 34-14.

Coach of the 14U team, Jack Higgins, said that it is the first year of organized football for many players on the roster.

“There has been quite a bit of learning,” said Higgins. “They have really come very far in their first month of football.”

The Bulldogs featured a strong rushing attack that moved the ball down the field in both halves.

Higgins said he is “really excited” about the progress that has been made in the preseason and through game one.

Despite the deficit in the second half, the Bulldogs’ defense worked hard to keep the Raiders in reach.

“They play really hard and it's a group of kids that doesnt quit very easily,” said Higgins. “They care for each other and really pick each other up.”

On the sidelines, Old Rochester cheerleading squads kept the spirit positive until the final whistle.

The 14U Bulldogs took the field for the day’s finale after Old Rochester’s 12U team suffered a 22-6 loss.