Western Branch High School’s football team was predictably strong at home on Friday night, opening up a 28-0 lead on Lakeland High School in the first half, but the Cavaliers showed heart.

They started to make some progress against the Bruins in the second half but did not take advantage of enough opportunities to get back into the game, falling 35-8.

Less than two minutes into the second half, Lakeland junior running back Damontra Milteer burst up the middle for a 76-yard touchdown run. The extra point ended up missing wide right, but the Cavs had cut the lead to 28-6.

Then, on Western Branch’s ensuing possession, Lakeland forced a fumble that senior defensive back DeAndre Drayton recovered at the Bruins’ 47-yard line. The Cavaliers could not capitalize on the turnover, though.

Later in the third quarter, Western Branch grabbed an interception and returned it about 50 yards for a touchdown, making it 35-6.

At times, the Bruins were their own worst enemy, twice negating interception returns for touchdowns on penalties that instead returned the ball to Lakeland with a first down in Western Branch territory.

Strong special teams play by the Cavs on a punt pinned the Bruins on their own 1-yard line near the end of the third quarter.

Shortly thereafter, Lakeland recorded a safety.

The Cavaliers (0-2) host Oscar Smith high School next Friday night.