Central Clinton Dewitt scored two second half goals in rallying to beat Perry 2-1 Thursday afternoon in the first round of the Iowa High School State Soccer Tournament. The Sabers march into today’s semi-final while Perry closes out the season with a mark of 16-3.
The second trip to state for Perry did not turn out as they had planned. The Jays jumped on the board at the 25 minute mark in the first half when Jesus Rodriguez scored from the top of the goal keeper box on an assist from Ivan Garcia. Jorge Soto made the lead hold with 7 first half saves. Perry also picked up a little help from the iron as Saber star Ferre Devos penalty kick early in the game hit the cross bar keeping the game scoreless.
The second half proved to belong to CCD as the Sabers scored two goals in a span of 10 minutes. Active winger Jacob Van Laere scored at the 55th minute after Devos beat the Perry defense along the baseline to set up the sophomore for the goal. Moments later, a breakdown in communication allowed mid fielder John Stammayer to score just a few feet away from Soto to give the Sabers a 2-1 lead. A short-handed Perry team attacked over the final 14 minutes but all 5 shots were turned away.
The Jays played the majority of the second half without their leading scorer and top defender. Rodriguez and Alvaro Soto were both forced to leave the game. Soto sustained a contusion on the side of his head that required stitches.
Perry closes out the year 16-3.