Judging the Berryville Bobcats’ performance at Pea Ridge last Friday night based solely on the final score would lead an observer to believe the Bobcats suffered another ho-hum loss to one of the top teams in the 4A-1.

Pea Ridge defeated Berryville 35-6, but Berryville coach Doug Shott said the game wasn’t a blowout.

“The score doesn’t reflect, in my opinion, all that went on,” Shott said.

Berryville struggled offensively, mustering just 170 yards of total offense.

But the Bobcats’ defense didn’t surrender without a fight.

The Blackhawks (6-2, 5-0 4A-1) dominated the first half, building a 22-0 lead. Berryville made Pea Ridge put in some work, however. The Blackhawks’ second touchdown drive took 22 plays.

“Our kids never gave up,” Shott said.

The second half was more competitive as Berryville (3-5, 1-4) allowed just 13 points and avoided a shutout with a touchdown run by senior Kooper Logan.

“At halftime, we talked about the value of showing up,” Shott said. “It was a tough night, but our kids fought.”

Senior Christian Lemus was the Bobcats’ leading rusher, gaining 53 yards on 11 carries.

Pea Ridge running back Samuel Beard rushed for 109 yards on 22 carries and scored two touchdowns.

In his second season as the Bobcats’ head coach, Shott understands that rebuilding the program is a work in progress.

“We’re not more talented than most of the teams we play, but our kids are starting to understand the value of giving your best for four quarters,” he said. “I like our kids. I’m going to be sad when a lot of these seniors are gone.”