The Pilgrim football team entered last Friday’s opener as one of the state’s biggest week 1 underdogs.

By halftime, the DIII Pats were firmly in control against the DII Woonsocket Villa Novans, and would put the league on notice when they held on down the stretch to pick up the shocking 12-7 win.

“It was great and it was important for team morale, especially against a team like Woonsocket. Most people picked us to lose, so that was great motivation, it fueled the fire. We knew they hit hard and we felt that for sure today, but it’s all about heart, we kept getting up and that’s the Pilgrim way,” said Pilgrim captain Jacob Soulliere, who rushed for a touchdown and hauled in an interception in the second quarter to give the Pats the early lead.

Although Woonsocket managed to cut into the lead in the final minute of the half, the Pilgrim defense would rebound and play shutout ball in the final two quarters.

Quarterback Carter Clifton made his season debut after missing last year with a knee injury and his presence was immediately felt. He got Pilgrim on the board on the first play of the second quarter on an 18-yard rushing score of his own.

“I haven’t been out here since my sophomore year, so it was great to be back out here with my buddies, the fans rooting for us. It feels good to get the first one out of the way. Now more people are going to show up and create a better atmosphere. We graduated all four starting wide receivers last year but replaced them with four new seniors. We’ve been clicking which is good to see,” said Clifton. “We had nothing to lose. We just wanted to come out here and have fun. This is going to help us get better and now people will know us.”

After graduating much of its core from last year’s team, Pilgrim will be relying on a new crop of playmakers to make an impact, along with the leadership of Clifton and Soulliere. The two senior captains are thrilled to take the field together heading into their final seasons.

“He’s been my best friend since I was 4, I grew up with all these guys which builds the chemistry so much more,” said Soulliere. “(This win is) a big confidence booster because I had a rough game against West Warwick. I came out here and played how I know I can. It’s going to be all out, I’m ready to die on this field with it being my last year.”

Clifton also tipped his cap to Soulliere and the defense for coming up big in the second half.

“I was nervous, I was down on one knee there, but it’s the no-fly zone,” Clifton said.

The Pats improved to 1-0 and will be taking on Cranston East in a league contest this week. The Bolts moved down to DIII this fall and the Pats are excited to compete in another big matchup.

“No one picked us to beat this team, but we came out here and shocked the world. Twelve points is not going to win you every game, though, so we have to get back to work, watch film tomorrow and get ready for Cranston East,” Clifton said.