Ellsworth Community College opened the football season 0-2 with a loss Saturday at No. 16 Highland Community College.

In the 21-0 loss to the Scotties, the Panthers struggled offensively. They tallied just 165 yards of total offense and were outgained by 195 yards.

Highland scored late in the first half with a one yard run by DeMarc Fishback.

Coming off the break, Fishback added another short dash (five yards) to extend the hosts advantage to 14-0.

It was not until late in the fourth quarter that HCC put the game away. A five yard pass from Kenny Mayberry to Deonta Campbell sealed ECC's fate.

ECC used three different quarterbacks, with AJ Payne going 2 of 5 for 18 yards and an interception. Kvonte Baker had the only other completion for a total of 27 yards.

Payne also led in rushing with 70 yards on 16 attempts. Shaundarious Kimbrough had 14 carries for 38 yards. 

The Panthers next game is on the road at No. 3 Garden City Saturday, Sept. 7 with a 1 pm kick-off.

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