Troy’s 15-U soccer team was dealt a tough hand early on at the ARPA State Championships. Troy lost a player early in the first half due to a red card, meaning Troy was forced to play with just ten players on the field the rest of the way.

“We were up against a very good team,” said head coach Doug McLendon. “It’s extremely difficult to play against a well-organized team when you’re down a man. To the kids’ credit, they played valiantly. It didn’t look like we were a man down, it looked like we were even.”

Troy’s opponent, Dothan, was able to take advantage, scoring goals in both the first and second halves to pick up a 2-1 victory.

Troy trailed 1-0 at the half, but was able to tie the game early in the second on a goal by Steven Macias.

Unfortunately for Troy, Dothan scored a goal soon after to provide the final margin of victory.

The team’s luck did not get any better against Eufaula, as Troy was eliminated from title contention after losing 4-0.

Troy trailed 3-0 at the half after Eufaula’s Angel Guerrerro had a first half hat trick.

The loss brought Troy’s season to an end.

“We’re a very young team, seeing as how we only have one 15-year-old, so I’m looking forward to hopefully coaching this team again next year,” McLendon said.