NATCHEZ — The Vidalia Vikings’ first victory of the season slipped from their fingertips Friday night in a 14-12 loss to Delhi.

Up 12-6 with five minutes left in the fourth, the Vikings allowed a 50-yard passing touchdown and two-point conversion that led to an 0-1 start for the Vikings.

Vidalia head coach Jeff Hancock attributed the loss to penalties, which disrupted the Vikings’ flow all night.

“I don’t know the exact total of penalties committed, but it was a lot for a lot of yards,” Hancock said. “It doesn’t matter what offense you run, when you commit that many penalties, it will kill your drives. I can’t tell you how many times we swapped 2nd down and five for 2nd and 10.

“It changes the way you call plays.”

Quarterback Johnny Anderson did not suit out or play in the season opener, still healing from his shoulder injury he suffered in the jamboree against Ferriday.

“His status is still uncertain,” Hancock said. “We’re taking it day-to-day.”

With Anderson out of action, the Thompson twins shared most of the rushing.

Jarius Thompson scored first for the Vikings on a 41-yard touchdown run in the second quarter.

His brother, Darius Thompson, scored on a 77-yard run in the third quarter to put the Vikings up 12-0.

“We’re getting better, and it’s hard to see because people only look at wins and losses,” Hancock said. “We had some missed assignments up front, but playing on the line isn’t easy. Our defense played well tonight besides a few plays. The wins are going to come, but right now, we’re still learning.”

The Vikings will play against Delhi Charter at home Friday.