A 16-point lead at halftime was enough to secure a win for the Dawson County High School football team. The Tigers led Union County 22-6 going in at the half and held on for a 22-19 victory to move to 2-1 in region 8A-AA play.
Dawsons offense got into a rhythm midway through the first quarter after stalling on the drive following the opening kickoff.
Quarterback Tyler Dominy connected with running back Zack Martin on a screen play that carried the Tigers more than 50 yards for a touchdown and their first lead of the game, 7-3.
After Union managed to move the ball past the 50-yardline the Tigers put the breaks on and forced a turnover on downs after the Panthers failed to convert on fourth down.
The Tigers answered quickly as Dominy found receiver Bruce Clark wide open for a 35-yard score.
Throughout the first quarter the Tigers defense bent allowing Union to get within striking distance, but held strong to keep the Panthers out of the end zone. Great tackling led to a goal line stand for the Tigers and forced Union to settle for a field goal, bringing the score to 14-6.
With less than three minutes left in the half the Tigers drove down the field for one last score before the half. Martin broke a nearly 40-yard run to move the Tigers across midfield and into scoring range. Then, Dominy connected with Clark for a 30-yard touchdown - their second on the night.
The Tiger offense fell quiet in the second half, but the defense managed to hold on for the win, 22-19. The win moves the Tigers to 3-4 overall and 2-1 in region 8A-AA.
Dawson is currently tied second place in 8A-AA with East Hall, who it will host this Friday night for the annual Homecoming game at 7:30 p.m.