The Mount Desert Island football team saw its season end Monday with a 14-6 loss at Waterville in the Pine Tree Conference Class B quarterfinals.

But for a program that hadn’t experienced playoff fever since 1998 and endured an 0-9 season two years ago, its 5-4 finish this fall represented a solid step toward sustained respectability.

“I told the kids right after the game there was nothing to be ashamed of, this was maybe the best game we’ve played all season,” said MDI coach Mark Shields. “Right now, especially for the seniors, it hurts, but a year from now we’re going to look back and really reflect on what we accomplished.

“This was a really big step from the program, being competitive with a team like [Waterville] who I still consider along with Gardiner, Winslow and Brewer to be Class A programs. They play in Class B, but they still have that mentality of being Class A.

“So for us, being 0-9 two years ago, to come out and play a program like this within 14-6 in a playoff game on their field, I’m very proud of our kids,” Shields added.

MDI will graduate 18 seniors – the first group of varsity players to come through the Acadian Football League youth program on the island – but the Trojans’ current depth and future strength was on display even in defeat.

Sophomore Terrence Jones stepped in to help replace leading rusher Jonathan Hall, after the junior was sidelined two weeks ago with a concussion. Jones delivered both on the ground and as a pass receiver – catching a 35-yard pass from senior quarterback Sean Parady to help set up the Trojans’ lone touchdown.

Junior Danny Dunn switched from guard to fullback after starter Chris Ward went out with a foot injury, and in two starts rushed for more than 100 yards against Old Town and then led MDI’s ground game against Waterville.

“The good news is he’s only a junior, so he’ll be back next year,” said Shields. “We have some fairly good talent coming back next year. Obviously we’re losing a real strong senior class, but I’m hoping we can bounce back next year and be competitive as well.”