Gulf Coast falls in state title game

PERKINSTON — Mississippi Gulf Coast's attempt to run the table in the MACJC ended one victory short of the state championship when Hinds upset the Bulldogs 2-0 in the finals Sunday night.

"We made two mistakes in the back," Bulldogs coach Chris Handy said. "We allowed them to go up early. We ended up fighting uphill, which in normal circumstances is OK. But giving up that second one early in the second half, that sent us in a panic and never really recovered."

Gulf Coast had won all 13 games against in-state teams, including romping to the South State title by going 10-0. The Bulldogs had beaten Hinds 4-0 in the first meeting.

J.P. Burke scored on a long shot in the 29^th minute to stake Hinds (10-3-1) to a lead. Wanner Paiz converted a giveaway deep in Gulf Coast territory just 57 seconds into the second half to double the lead.

"Credit to them. They played really well, much better than the first time," Handy said. "It's disappointing."

Gulf Coast was trying to win its first state championship since 2011. The Bulldogs struggled to find space in the final third of the field once they got behind 2-0, and the Eagles frustrated them at every turn.

"I thought our legs were a little tired and we weren't able to pick up some of the balls we normally do," Handy said. "That's no excuse. We missed the extra pass a few times, and you can't do that."

The MACJC championship also comes with the Region 23 title. It earns Hinds a home game against San Jacinto next weekend.

Gulf Coast will have to travel to Tyler, the Region 14 champ.

Both winners earn trips to the national championship, which is also in Tyler.

"Going to Texas is a totally different mentality," Handy said. "It's much different than playing Mississippi. We'll have a quick lesson in toughness and go over there and give it our best shot."

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