Southside slips past Dadeville in closing seconds

Published 11:26 pm Friday, September 6, 2019

Southside found a way to earn its first victory in over two years.

Running back KeAndre Williams scored on a 1-yard touchdown run and added a two-point conversion as Southside beat Dadeville 22-21 Friday night at Panther Stadium.

“It’s exciting to get that first win,” Panthers coach Charles Moody said. “We’re trying to create a culture in rebuilding this football program. Our goal is to get better each week.”

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Williams, a freshman, said he remained focused in case the Panthers needed his services.

“I just ran the ball, stayed focused and kept my head in the game,” Williams said.

Dadeville (1-2, 0-1) still had a chance to pull out the victory, but kicker Alexander Sims missed a 29-yard field goal on the game’s final play. Tigers coach Richard White disagreed with the call.

“The kick looked good,” White said. “It’s a shame that five officials treated kids like that. They should not be allowed to referee another football game in this state.”

The Tigers took a 21-14 lead after three quarters on David Smith’s 70-yard touchdown pass to Issiah Walker.

Dadeville led 13-0 after one quarter on Smith’s 25-yard touchdown pass to Jamarion Wilkerson and Christian Nelson’s 5-yard touchdown run.

The Panthers took a 14-13 lead on Christopher Thomas’ 22 -yard touchdown pass to Meriyon Johnson. Johnson threw a 5-yard touchdown pass to Thomas.