The Wynyard Bears got off to a good start in their 2017 season opener, downing the Preeceville Panthers 40-28 on Thursday.

Opening up the season on the road, the Bears fell behind early, as Preeceville took an 8-0 lead.

That, however, would be the last time the Bears would trail in the game, as they evened the score minutes later.

Grade 12 quarterback Rylan Sokul helped give Wynyard the lead, connecting on a deep pass over the middle to give the Bears a 14-8 lead.

A back and forth first half continued with the Panthers evening the game at 14-14 at the break.

Sokul once again put the Bears infront after keeping the ball himself and running in for a touchdown. Again, Preeceville would quickly tie the game, making it 20-20.

Wynyard was finally able to gain control in the game after Ryan Tarry found the endzone and the Bears took a 34-20 lead into the fourth quarter.

The two sides exchanged touchdowns once again, making it 40-26 Wynyard. On the final play of the game, a Bears punt was blocked and knocked through the endzone for a safety, giving the Panthers two more points.

One other game in 6-man play saw the Viscount Vikings fall 72-21 to the defending provincial champion Hanley Sabers.

More area teams begin their seasons on Friday.

Watrous is hosting Assiniboia and Lanigan travels to Davidson. Raymore visits Lemberg, while Aberdeen welcomes Rosetown.