FREEPORT — Defense was the name of the game in a must-win contest for both the Freeport and Valley football teams.

Valley's defense won out in the team's 14-3 victory over the Yellowjackets Friday.

The first quarter opened with the two teams trading three-and-outs, which signaled the start of things to come.

But Freeport (3-3) got some steam as Andrew Teorsky rushed seven times on a long drive that got the Yellowjackets into field goal range.

Andew Vidra booted a 36-yard field goal that split the uprights to give the Yellowjackets a 3-0 lead.

Miscues hurt both teams.

Freeport fell victim to several penalties on both sides of the ball and Valley (5-1) lost a fumble midway through the second quarter.

But the Yellowjackets couldn't convert the fumble into points and punted the ball away to Valley.

A 34-yard score by LeBren O'Neal capped a Valley drive that started at its own 23 after the Freeport punt.

Freeport, though, came out in the second half determined, but couldn't take advantage of its solid defense.

The Yellowjackets caused a fumble in Valley territory, but missed a 39-yard field goal.

Brad Marzullo, who fumbled earlier for Valley, squirted into the end zone from the 1 with 4:59 remaining in the fourth quarter to give the Vikings a 14-3 lead it would never relinquish.

Freeport's comeback attempt was quickly sidetracked when Alex Isenberg tossed an interception on the second play of the ensuing drive.

Still, the Yellowjackets had another chance when their defense forced another fumble. But Isenberg was sacked for an 8-yard loss to kill the drive.

"Our offensive line had excellent blocking tonight," said Valley coach Troy Hill. "Brad Marzullo was the standout player because of his two interceptions and score."

Notes: Valley lost two fumbles and Freeport was intercepted twice. ... O'Neal rushed 24 times for 90 yards. ... Freeport running back Andrew Teorsky rushed for 80 yards on 24 carries.