The Dowagiac soccer team edged rival Cassopolis 2-1 in the opening game of the Chieftains Invitational en route to the championship Saturday.

The Chieftains were drew blood first when in the 21st minute forward Aubrey Huston buried one past Cass keeper Tom Bosler to put the Chieftains up 1-0.

A lead that they would maintain into halftime.

Dowagiac would come out of the break on the offensive, which came to full fruition when Jorge Ruiz put in what would become the game winner in the 34th minute.

The Rangers however tried desperately to mount a rally in the games final stages when in the 53rd minute Cass forward Shawn Teter drew the Rangers within a goal on a shot that looped just over laid out Dowagiac keeper Paul Lamphere.

Dowagiac’s defense would take control of the game from that point out squashing out any attempt at a comeback from the Rangers.

Dowagiac head coach Mike Williams was pleased with his undermanned team’s performance in both the Cass game and on the day in general.

“It’s always good to come out and win your own tournament. We had some kids who normally play not play today and I think the kids who filled in for them did a tremendous job,” he said. “I was happy with our play.”

The Chieftains won their invitational in thrilling fashion beating Michigan Lutheran 2-1 (3-2 in a penalty kick shoot out) in the third and final game of the day.

Cassopolis lost 8-0 in its game against Lutheran.

The Chieftains return to action Monday when they travel to Lawton. Cass returns to action Tuesday at home against Lake Michigan Catholic.

 

Chieftain Invitational

At Dowagiac

Dowagiac…2

Cassopolis…1

Halftime score

Dowagiac 1, Cassopolis 0

 

Dowagiac goals

Aubrey Huston

Jorge Ruiz

 

Cassopolis goal

Shawn Teter

 

Shots on goal

Dowagiac 8, Cassopolis 6