After moving ahead 2-0, the Great Bend High School boys’ soccer team held off Western Athletic Conference foe Dodge City on Thursday evening at Cavanaugh Field.
The Panthers won 2-1 to improve to 6-1-1 overall, 3-1 in WAC action.
“We started strong,” GBHS head coach Gus Prieto said. “They come aggressive. I know how they are. I’ve played against Dodge for probably eight years. They’re going to be a tough team, a hard game. I’m glad we were able to score two goals.”
Senior midfielder Mario Espino scored in the first half to give Great Bend a 1-0 advantage heading into halftime.
After a shot ricocheted off a Dodge City defender, Espino drove the rebound into the back of the net.
“It was an amazing play,” Prieto said. “They started in the middle of the field and made about seven passes. We made a shot, and the defense blocked it. Mario received the ball, and he made a really good shot.”
Senior forward Alex Urias scored in the second half for the Panthers. He took a free kick after a Dodge City penalty and beat the Demons goalkeeper.
“It was a really good free kick,” Prieto said. “It was an amazing shot.”
Johan Vidana scored Dodge City’s only goal, closing the gap.
However, the Panthers defense clamped down, preventing a Dodge rally.
“We have a really good defense,” Prieto said. “We’ve received six goals in eight games. It is amazing. Last year in the first game, we received eight goals. We have a really strong defense. They are really smart. It makes a strong team.”
GBHS hits the road to challenge Manhattan on Saturday, starting at 11 a.m.