THE JACKSON County boys’ soccer team kept itself unbeaten in 8-AA South play just in time for one of its most daunting challenges of the year.
The Panthers (3-4, 2-0) take on defending region champion North Oconee (3-2, 2-0) at Panther Stadium at 7:30 p.m.
Jackson County trailed Elbert County 1-0 at the half Monday before rallying to win the game in the second half with goals from Patrick Ventura and Philip Burzo.
It was an encouraging final 40 minutes, according to the Panthers’ coach.
“We really had to fight through a very frustrating half — blocked PK, a side post and missing an open net — that led to some self doubt in my opinion,” Jackson County coach Joseph Brubaker said. “Our guys could have said it wasn’t happening tonight, but we kept fighting and I am proud of that and the result.”
The Panthers, who drilled Hart County 9-0 Friday, have now won two straight.
Obviously, Thursday will be a much taller order. North Oconee, which advanced to the Class AA final four last year, has posted three consecutive shutout wins. The Titans, who won last year’s game 10-0, are coming off a 4-0 win Friday over Jefferson.
Jackson County then moves on to face Oglethorpe County (2-4, 0-1) Tuesday.
