The Dawson County High School varsity boys soccer team opened the regular season with a 2-1 win over White County last Tuesday in Cleveland. The Tigers then dropped a 1-0 decision to state powerhouse Buford on Friday.

Against White County, Tigers Josh Lund and Jose Miranda scored. Miranda put in the game winner with only 9 minutes left on a free kick.

“This is the best team play that we have ever had here,” said Head Coach Jed Lacey. “I thought we got great play by Sam Edwards in goal. Cody Hall and Stanton Rogers also played well for us.”

Defense was a key in the win by the Tigers.

Ian Perry, James Carr and Cody McGinnis did a great job defending the goal against the Warriors.

On Friday, Buford converted a Dawson mistake to score in the first two minutes of the game. The Wolves then held on to take the 1-0 win.

“Buford is a great and classy team,” Lacey said. “They are one of the best AA teams in the state.”

The Tigers out shot the Wolves 11-7, but just couldn’t produce a goal.

Sophomores Josh Lund and Jose Miranda were all over the Buford net.

“Jose and Josh are just going to get better and better,” Lacey said.

Ethan Brown and Gunnar Armstrong rejoined the team from basketball and made a difference right away.

“They both started for us last year and while they were gone other players have stepped up to the forefront to show what they can do,” Lacey said.

“The defense played great against a very good Buford attack. Ian Perry, James Carr, Cody McGinnis and Ethan Brown were like a wall. These guys are true warriors and play with no fear,” Lacey said.

“Playing teams like Buford, Cross Keys, Stephens County, Union County and Thomasville, the defending state champions, is going to get us noticed by the rest of the state and get us ready to make another run at the state playoffs,” Lacey added.

The team will travel to Cross Keys on Friday. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.