Dawgs end first half of district soccer
By GEORGIA PURDY Newsboy Correspondent

The Jasper Bulldog soccer team tied Lufkin Hudson 4-4 last Tuesday to complete the first half of district play.

Lufkin took a 2-0 lead in the first half before Kaleb Burrows scored Jasper's first goal, with an assist from Zach Riggins.

"Lukin took a 2-0 lead on us due to our lack of focus," coach Troy Carpenter said. "Once we decided to quit complaining and started to play together, we were fine."

Jasper came out fast in the second half with a goal by Guillermo Hernandez and another assist by Riggins. Then Ossama Zafar found the back of the net to put the Bulldogs in the lead.

"This was a great play," Carpenter said. "Riggins took the shot toward the goal, but as Drew Hall was coming into the goal, he collided with the keeper. That allowed Zafar to score the goal."

Hudson came back with another score to tie the game. Then Riggins scored on a penalty kick, giving the 'Dogs a 4-3 advantage. With six minutes left, Hudson scored again to end the game at 4-4.

"We missed several opportunities to win our first district game, but we are looking forward to improving and finishing strong in the second half," Carpenter said.

Jasper lost 5-0 to Henderson Friday night.

"We played better as a team this time," Carpenter said. "We just weren't able to capitalize on our offensive moves. The score doesn't truly represent the effort on the field. I'm proud of their effort and we were still upbeat and looking for our first win."

Jasper played Center last night and will be on the road with Palestine Friday, March 2.