By David Busman

 

AMERICUS – It was an exciting, back-and-forth match between the host Americus-Sumter Panthers and the Carver Tigers. However, the Panthers were able to come out on top 5-3 on Friday night, February 23, at Americus-Sumter High School.

The win gives the Panthers their first win of the season.

“I’m really proud of the boys’ performance tonight,” ASH Head Coach Felix Jimenez said. “We played well and kept up the pressure to create good scoring opportunities, leading us to the win.”

After several back-and-forth exchanges across the field, the Panthers were able to get an early 1-0 lead. They held on to their one-goal lead until halftime. However, things heated up in the second half. The Panthers scored on a free kick, doubling their lead to 2-0. However, Carver was able to score two goals of their own to tie the game.

Then with 26 minutes left, the Panthers regained the lead, only to have Carver get an equalizer with 16 minutes to go.

With the score tied 3-3, the Panthers slowed the game down slightly and maintained offensive ball control, spending more possession time on Carver’s side of the field. Americus-Sumter created numerous chances to score. They finally broke through, getting a go-ahead goal and never looking back. The Panthers got one more goal to make the final 5-3.

Tyrell Roberts, Jose Ovando and Montavious Ned each scored a goal for the Panthers. Jonathan Rodriguez also scored two goals in the match.