Teri Tune
Sports Scene
Led by senior Austin Dunn, the Perry boys soccer team enjoyed a solid season.
Dunn, a returning all-state player, came through for his team, scoring both goals to give his team a 2-0 victory in their Division 3 district opener against Leslie.
The score was 0-0 at the end of regulation play, and the Ramblers were forced to take it into overtime.
Dunn’s first goal came at 7:34 in the first overtime.
“None of us were really expecting to go into overtime, so when it happened we were nervous, especially us seniors,” said Dunn.
As for Perry coach Tom Wintz, he thought his team was in control the whole game.
“We didn’t have three of our starters out for most of the game due to injuries, but we did have possession and the ball was on their half for 90% of the time,” Wintz said. “The younger guys were nervous, but it also gave them an opportunity to step up, and they did that. With the bad, the injuries, also came the good, getting the younger guys the experience, and that experience is going to be very beneficial in our next game. Next we play Williamston, and we will be 100%, but now the guys who don’t usually play a lot have had some experience playing in a high stakes game, and we will be a better stronger team for that.”
Dunn’s second goal came on a corner kick from Jordan Killingsworth at 8:10 in the second overtime.
“It was a really good feeling to know that the second goal had put it away for us,” Dunn said. “There was only a couple of minutes left, and I knew they wouldn’t be able to come back on us, and we wouldn’t have to go into a shoot-out like last year in districts where we lost. We’ve had a few bad streaks this season, but overall it has been a great season.”
The Ramblers saw their season come to an end against Williamston, as they were defeated 3-0.
“We had a very special group of seniors this year, and I think Dunn is one of the greatest players in the state, and we will miss him and the others next year,” said coach Wintz.
Dunn plans to play soccer in college, but he hasn’t made his decision on which one yet.
“I plan to keep playing, and I will eventually pick a college where I know I will have a spot on the team,” Dunn said.