Southside Panthers come back to beat Thomasville Tigers 22-15

The Southside Panthers debuted on their home turf Friday night against the Thomasville High School Tigers.

The Panthers' defense set the tone of the game early when Micheal Hosea blocked a punt causing the Panthers to recover to get a chance to score. The Panthers fumbled that opportunity returning the chance to the Tigers for a chance to score. The Tigers came within yards to score, but the Panthers' defense came up big to stop the Tigers from getting on the board. 

The Panthers finally found the end zone when Cedrick Simmons scored and Ar'Mari Towns got the two extra points. The Tigers were able to make their way on the score board before the second quarter ended by kicking a field goal. At the last seconds of the second quarter, the Panthers did a trick play that resulted in a touchdown by Derrick Surles. 

The Panthers' defense continued to show up and show out as Jaderious Wilkins came up with an interception, but the Panthers once again failed to score on this possession. The defense continued to make big plays by not allowing the Tigers back in the end zone. The Tigers were able to score off a costly turnover from the Panthers but the attempt for the extra two points failed when the Panthers came up with another interception.

With the score being 15-14 in favor of the Tigers, the Panthers were forced to come up with a big play to seal the deal. Kole Moody found Derrick Surles in the end zone to lead the Panthers to a 22-15 victory over the Tigers. 

Southside head coach Charles Moody stated, "We would like to work on our focus for the next game. It's the little things that is the difference between winning and losing. The little things are the difference between greatness and just being mediocre."

Southside, now 2-0 for the season after beating Selma, will travel to Plantersville next Friday night to face the Dallas County Hornets at 7 p.m.