One positive Porters Chapel Academy could take away from its 22-7 loss to Deer Creek last week was the play of its defense in the second half.

The Eagles held Deer Creek to just 14 yards of offense over the last two quarters. It wasn’t enough to overcome a 15-point deficit created largely by turnovers and short fields, but did put a smile on the face of defensive coordinator Bill Fleming.

“Extremely proud of them,” Fleming said. “Every single one of them played great in the second half.”

The defensive effort gave PCA (1-1) ample opportunity for a second-half comeback. Three interceptions and a holding call that wiped out a punt return touchdown by Peter Harris kept it from happening, though.

PCA coach Wade Patrick would have liked to see a full four quarters from his defense, but a four-man front to start the game was taken advantage of by the Warriors. The result was an early 14-0 hole in the first quarter.

“They pushed us around there to start the game,” Patrick said. “We went to a five-man front to cover up all the linemen and that worked well for us.”

Defensive tackle Bryce Fleming started to make some plays and finished with two tackles for loss. The solid play helped the PCA offense start all but one possession inside Deer Creek territory.

The other big bright spot for the Eagles was Harris. He ran hard and finished with 99 rushing yards and one touchdown on 19 carries. He also caught three passes for 54 yards, including a 33-yard reception that set up the Eagles’ lone score in the second quarter.

Deer Creek coach Murry Rhodes was impressed.

“That’s one great athlete,” Rhodes said. “He’s something.”

Heading into this Friday’s home opener against Ben’s Ford, a big question for the Eagles is at quarterback. Starter Jonah Masterson had surgery this week to fix a knee ligament tear and will be out another two to six weeks.

Masterson’s replacement, sophomore Zac Morgan, threw four interceptions in his first start.

Patrick tried to stay positive.

“I felt we moved the ball all night,” Patrick said. “We just need to give our young quarterback some confidence.”