FALMOUTH – The Falmouth boys’ soccer team has had its share of trouble the last couple years with Yarmouth, losing three straight games against one of its biggest rivals.

But the Yachtsmen ended that streak Saturday, earning a 1-0 victory over the defending Class B state champions thanks to Grant Burfeind’s first-half goal.

“It always seems to be a one-goal game against Yarmouth,” Falmouth Coach Dave Halligan said. “We have a lot of respect for them and they have a lot for us, so it always makes for a great competition.”

Falmouth’s intensity was apparent immediately. The Yachtsmen (9-3-1) had their first chance when Ben Freeman made a charge toward the left side of the goal, but the ball was deflected wide by Yarmouth keeper Chris Knaub before Freeman could get off a shot.

Just as Yarmouth (9-3-1) seemed to gain a little momentum, Falmouth drove back down the field. Burfeind, despite being outnumbered by Yarmouth defenders after corralling a pass from captain Brandon Tuttle, slipped the ball past Knaub to put his team up 1-0 with 1:55 remaining in the half.

“Brandon played a perfect ball over the top, and I don’t think the defenders around me knew where the ball was,” Burfeind said. “I got a toe on it and it just trickled in.”

Knaub and Falmouth keeper Will D’Agostino each made tremendous saves in the second half. Yarmouth’s best chance came with 31:45 left when Adam LaBrie fired a shot from the right side. D’Agostino made a diving save.

Halligan said his team’s depth and intensity was the difference.

“We’ve had some kids who haven’t played a whole lot step up tonight, and that was great to see,” Halligan said.

The teams could meet again in the Western Class B playoffs, perhaps as soon as the semifinals.

“This is just one game, and I think Yarmouth feels the same way,” Halligan said.