GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KKCO)-- In a defensive battle on opening night, the Cedaredge Bruins took a positive first step in the Brandon Milholland era with a 12-7 win over Paonia.

The Bruins struck first with a sack of K.C. Christian in his own end zone for a safety. Michael Mackey added a 10-yard rushing touchdown in the second quarter to make it 9-0. Paonia added a touchdown, but the Bruins held on for the win.

Cedaredge improves to 1-0 and will visit Hotchkiss on Sept. 10 at 7 p.m. Paonia drops to 0-1 and will travel to take on Grand Valley on Sept. 10 at 7 p.m.