It was a tough start to the season for the Estevan Century 21 Chargers, as the peewee football club was shut out 48-0 by the Regina Riders in their season opener Saturday in Regina.

Chargers head coach Steve McLellan said not being ready to play and poor ball pursuit were two of the areas that hurt his squad.

"Overall, I think our effort was there and our commitment, I was happy there," he said.

"Overall execution is probably where we need the most improvement."

After a nightmarish first half that saw the Chargers fall behind 40-0 at the break, the team tightened up defensively and only allowed eight more points in the second half.

"Our first half was definitely challenging, then we came out in the second and got our composure together," said McLellan, who added that his team tried not to focus on the score in the second half and just focused on playing well.

McLellan said running backs Colein Poole and Donny Mortenson, quarterback Cameron Rioux, offensive lineman Lane Newell and safety Jordan Nykiforuk were among the players who stood out for the Chargers.

McLellan said he's not completely sure what to expect from his club this early in the season, but he hopes they'll be able to compete in the Regina Minor Football peewee division after winning only one game last year.

"It's still tough to tell in terms of expectations. I expect that we'll be competitive and kind of lick our wounds and get ready for next week."

The Chargers will host the Weyburn Eagles on Sunday as part of the season opener for all three Penta Completions Estevan Minor Football teams. Kickoff time for the peewee game is 12:45 p.m.