BIDDEFORD — There was jubilation in the atmosphere at Biddeford Friday night, and for good reason.

Biddeford football broke its winless streak, beating South Portland 23 -7. That was a load off the shoulders of a Biddeford football program that went winless last season and hadn’t won a game since 2010. That was 10 games ago.

“I told them in the locker room before the game it has been 97 weeks since this team has won a varsity football game,” said Biddeford Coach Scott Descoteaux. “Through a tough stretch here we have had some strong character kids that understood what the big picture was all about. Last year these kids never quit and we knew we had a long way to go. We still have a long way to go.”

Biddeford had 340 yards of total offense with 114 yards rushing and 226 yards passing. Tigers quarterback Nick Leblond, was 17 for 30 passing with two touchdowns. Brian Gelinas was the leading rusher with 59 yards. South Portland had 198 yards of offense with 122 yards rushing and 76 yards passing. Its lone touchdown run came from quarterback Thomas Leddy on a 3-yard scamper at the goal line.

“We will be able to ring that victory bell back at Maplewood,” said Leblond. “Just a magical night at Waterhouse Field.”

Biddeford scored on its first drive down field with an even balance of run and pass. South Portland started its first drive with a three and out punt. Biddeford controlled the first half as it ate up most of the clock with a mix of run and short pass plays. South Portland quarterback Duncan Preston got injured early in the first quarter and did not return to the game.

The second half started off on a botched kickoff that was recovered by Biddeford. Biddeford took advantage of the South Portland mistake and scored on its first drive on a pass to Matt Cote.

“The onside kick was supposed to be a kick that we kept on the ground and we caught a break on that,” said Descoteaux.

South Portland answered right back with a 10-minute drive capped off with a 3-yard run for the touchdown. Biddeford then answered right back again with a touch pass from Leblond to tight end Connor Morrison. Biddeford also tacked on a 32-yard field goal to make the final score 23-7.

Leblond entered this game was battling a separated shoulder from last week’s lost to Bonny Eagle. He didn’t practice until Thursday of this week when he was cleared to play. Leblond is now 34 for 72 for 547 yards passing this season.

“It only hurts if I think it hurts,” said Leblond when asked about his injury after the game.

— Contact Nate Fowler at 282-1535, Ext. 323.