Tiger soccer wins Section 5 crown

TUSCALOOSA — Jace Rivas put just enough on a shot with 15 minutes to play to give Demopolis (6-5-1, 4-0) a crucial 3-2 win over section foe Paul Bryant Friday night. The victory culminated an unbeaten run through Class 5A, Section 5 play for Demopolis.

Rivas took his shot off a direct kick but it found its way into the arms of the goalkeeper before officials ruled that the ball had entered the goal prior to the catch. The ruling left the Tigers with a 3-2 lead that would stand the rest of the way, giving the squad the outright section title and the opportunity to host a playoff match.

“We tip our hat to Bryant,” Demopolis coach Keith Jackson said. “Bryant played a much better match.I give them credit for their effort as this was an exciting match. We didn’t play as well as we can, but somehow found a way to win.”

Austin Brooks opened the scoring for the Tigers early, giving DHS a 1-0 lead before Bryant battled back to tie it.

Nathan Hay used a Christian Corbitt helper to put the Tigers up 2-1 heading into the half. Bryant’s game-tying goal in the second half came on a penalty kick.

Demopolis is scheduled to host Cottage Hill Christian Friday at 5;30 p.m.