From Staff Reports
The Perry High boys soccer team defeated Howard 1-0 Tuesday to take third place in the final Region 2-AAAA standings.
“The game was a hard fought match between the two schools,” said head coach Nathan Dooley.
It was 0-0 at the half. Dooley said Perry had possession most of the first half but was unable to score.
In the first five minutes of the second half Daniel Ward cashed in a breakaway scored what would be the winning goal.
“Our team fought really hard,” said Dooley. “Bryce Struckmeyer lead the defense and played extremely well alongside Ryan LeVally, Max Merritt and Tay Owens. Sean Swan kept the shutout in the goal by stopping a few quality shots by Howard. Micah Lehenbauer, Nick Hall, Luke Lineberger and Jharron Henley did a great job in the mid-field. At the end of the game we out possessed Howard 70-30, but the Huskie defense played tough and physical.
“I am extremely proud of our boys. They fought hard tonight and never gave up. This was the most complete game that we have played as a team from top to bottom.”
With the win, Perry improved to 10-6 for back to back 10-win seasons under Dooley and a 5-2 record in the region.
“I am excited to see where this momentum will carry our team in the state playoffs,” said Dooley. The Panthers’ first-round game is May 1 at Statesboro High.
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