GRANT — Despite being three classifications smaller than their opponent Grant High School, the Delta Charter Storm battled to the end of their first road test of the season, falling 36-20.

“The game was a lot closer than the score represented,” Delta Charter head coach Jarrett Hoffpauir said. “They scored a late touchdown that put a nail in the coffin, but I’m extremely proud of my 25 players. They got after it. We suffered a couple of injuries, but kept fighting until the end.”

Storm quarterback Trey Poole turned in a solid performance, completing 13 of his 16 passes for 135 yards.

“He made some good reads and threw some good balls,” Hoffpauir said. “I think the game is slowing down for him a bit.”

Freddie Mango carried the load on the ground for the Storm, gaining 66 yards on six carries. He also had a touchdown.

Hoffpauir said it was a challenge with the numbers on the team, especially on the line.

“In all reality, we had six healthy linemen this week,” he said. “They were tired, but played extremely well. Trey had time to throw the ball and we ran the ball really well, but we just ran out of gas. Grant ran that double wing and pounded it at us all night. They might’ve had 300 or 400 yards rushing.”

Next up for Delta Charter is a clash with Oak Grove, which Hoffpauir said won’t be a walk in the park.

“They’re going to bring it,” he said.