El Campo’s Ricebirds saw an early deficit they nearly overcame, losing 26-20 to rivals Bay City Blackcats in their first district defeat Friday Night. Bay City took a surprising 16-0 lead by the end of the first quarter, including a touchdown from an interception. El Campo’s defense, however, held the Blackcats scoreless late in the game and set up a final drive at Bay City’s 27-yard line. Sophomore Vlad Garcia’s rushing efforts gave hope, but a failed fourth-down conversion ended the comeback. El Campo will face unbeaten Port Lavaca Calhoun Sandcrabs next.