It was not a thing of beauty, but the Knoxville Football Squad grounded out a 16-9 season opening win over Fairfield on Friday night. The Panthers got going early after forcing a Trojans turnover deep in Knoxville territory and three plays later Carter Bailey ran in from six yards out to give Knoxville a 7-0 lead. Fairfield then seemed to take over as the Trojans scored nine unanswered points on a field goal and touchdown to take a 9-7 lead into the halftime break. It stayed that way until Brady Pearson marched in from four yards and the Panthers defense took over for the last two minutes and a Mike Hudson interception sealed it with 35 seconds remaining. Coach Eric Kellar not only thought the defense played well, but when it was time to close out the game, the offensive line also make their presence known. Knoxville was led by Lane Bach with eight carries for 51 yards, while Pearson had 49 yards on the ground and Bailey had 37 yards. Kieren Nichols was 6/7 for 35 yards through the air. Knoxville is 1-0 on the season and will travel to Saydel next Friday.