The Emery Spartans remain in search of its first victory of the season following a 17-0 loss to the Payson Lions Friday evening in Castle Dale.

Locked in a scoreless tie entering the second half, the Spartans failed to find the end zone for the second straight as the team dropped to 0-3 on the season. Payson on the other hand ended up victorious for the second straight week, following a road win over Carbon on August 25.

Junior quarterback Kyson Stilson finished 10-22 through the air for 97 yards and one interception in the loss. Rance Jensen helped provide some production on the ground with 37 yards off of 14 carries, while Easton Gordon finished with 10 yards on three attempts.

Friday’s shutout loss was the first for Emery since Sept. 19, 2014 when the Spartans suffered a 35-0 loss to Morgan on the road.

In the midst of a heavy home portion of the 2017 schedule, the Spartans will travel to Manti Friday for the final non-region contest of the season. Following Friday’s contest, Emery will open region play against Judge Memorial on Sept. 16 in the first of three straight home games.