MGCCC looking for early success against Co-Lin

PERKINSTON — Mississippi Gulf Coast coach Chris Handy would like to see his squad play the first 17 minutes of Friday's game like the Bulldogs played the last 17 against Jones County on Tuesday.

They blasted four goals past the Bobcats down the stretch in a 5-2 comeback victory.

"We need to see if we can bottle some of that urgency and start the game that way," Handy said. "Every game is important because we're trying to host state."

The Bulldogs (3-1) entertain Copiah-Lincoln (1-5) at the new MGCCC Soccer Complex at 7 p.m.

"I think they're better than in years past," Handy said. "Much like every game we've played this fall, they're going to come out and give their best effort. I think there's somewhat of a target on our backs, and I think the guys are starting realize that."

He like to see the team focused and energized from the opening whistle and said getting the first goal would be important to help loosen up the attack. The late goals, however, are also a function of the team's design.

"I think that will be somewhat of a common theme," Handy said. "That's part of our strategy, to play a lot of players in the first half and have more energy than they do in the second half."

MGCCC keeper Bryce Yelverton (6-3, 205, So., Gulfport/Gulfport) won the MACJC Goalie of the Week award for last week following a 1-0 shutout at Pearl River.

For more information on MGCCC's 10 intercollegiate athletic teams, follow @MGCCCAthletics on Twitter and BulldogLIVE on Facebook, and go to mgcccbulldogs.com.