Hillsboro, Kan. - The Tabor College Football Team fell to the Friends University Falcons Saturday night in Wichita, Kan. by the score of 65-17.

Tabor began the game strong with a 7-0, lead at the end of the first quarter. The score came near the end of the quarter when sophomore Sidney Childers (Madison, Kan.) recovered a fumble a returned it 26 yards for a touchdown.

Tabor scored again in the second quarter on a 33 yard run by sophomore quarterback Marc Amos (Lakewood, Colo.), to make the score 20-14, with four minutes to go in the half.

The Tabor defense slipped after the first quarter, allowing 35 points in the second. The Bluejays had particular trouble keeping the opposing team's passing game in check, allowing the Falcons to throw for three touchdowns and rush for another before the end of the half, as Friends went into the break leading 35-14.

Friends' strong play came as no surprise, as the Falcons (2-1), are currently competing for their 4th conference title in a row.

The Bluejays offense never seemed to get going in the second half, failing to finish the third quarter with positive offensive yards. Much of this was due to Friends' defensive line, which caused trouble in the backfield all game.

While some might consider the game a setback, Tabor Head Football Coach Mike Gottsch did not and believes there were still things to be gained.

According to Gottsch, his team accomplished its goal of scoring first in the game for the second time this season. It also had a 50 yard punt return by sophomore Caleb Washington (Livingston, Texas) that set up a 28 yard field goal by junior Stephen Gulledge (Dallas, Texas), midway through the third quarter. Tabor trailed after the third quarter, 49-17.

"With seven games left in the season still there is plenty of time for the team to make adjustments and find their rhythm," Gottsch said. "Continuing to build upon the things they're doing well will be key.

"If we stay positive, stay focused, and continue to improve we can compete with any team left on our schedule," Gottsch added.

Tabor (0-3) returns home to host Peru State College at 2 p.m., Saturday Oct. 3, at the beautiful new Joel H. Wiens Stadium.