Box Score *This story will be updated when stats are released from both teams.

DECATUR - A chippy, hotly-contested battle unfolded in the MACCC North Division opener on Friday night, but Northwest came out on the right side of things, earning a hard-fought 2-0 triumph at East Central.

Numerous yellow cards were issued to both teams throughout the match, which also set up several prolonged stoppages on the clock. East Central also had an ejection early in the match.

As for the scoring itself, Northwest quickly delivered the first strike, as Sidney Black, Jr. turned on the jets and raced downfield to toe one in past the keeper just five minutes into the match.

Northwest saw its 1-0 lead carry into halftime and into the early minutes of the second half, where Dylan Riley punched one in to provide the Rangers with the 2-0 advantage.

East Central had several opportunities to cut into the deficit, but the Rangers played well in keeping the Warriors out of the net and off the board.

With the win, Northwest moves to 1-4 on the season and 1-0 in the MACCC North Division. The Rangers will take a break until a showdown with Hinds next Friday, September 17. Kickoff in Raymond is slated for 7 P.M.