WARREN, Ohio — The Butler County Bears semi-pro football team opened the 2012 season Saturday with a 21-6 road victory over the Northeast Ohio Disciples.

The Bears recovered a shanked punt in the end zone for the game’s first score in the first quarter and led 7-0 at halftime.

Northeast Ohio closed the gap to 7-6 by putting together a nine-play, 75-yard touchdown drive in the third period. Karns City graduate Erik Fuhrer responded by tossing a 27-yard touchdown pass to Antawane Davis on the Bears’ second offensive play of the fourth quarter.

The Bears put the game away later when Karns City graduate Justin Switzer forced a fumble that was returned 47 yards for a score by fellow linebacker Randall Palakovich.

Butler County forced five turnovers in the contest and limited the Disciples to 197 yards offensively. The Bears won the game despite generating only 128 yards of offense themselves.

The Bears have a bye this weekend before hosting the Pittsburgh Pride June 2 at Art Bernardi Stadium. Call Kirk Bergbigler at 724-991-1861 for tickets.