William Huff/The Thomasville Times-EnterpriseLOCKDOWN D: Colby Hall battles for possession.

THOMASVILLE — The Thomasville High School Bulldogs were defeated by the Peach County Trojans 7-4 on Wednesday night in the first round of the playoffs. With great highs and deep lows, the roller coaster home game had fans on the edge of their seats until the final horn sounded.

“We just did not play well,” said Head Coach Robert Peterson. “You give up seven goals, you don’t deserve to win.”

The Bulldogs jumped out to an early lead on a goal by Seth Rome. Rome broke away from the defense and scored on a perfect strike in the top right corner. A second goal would be netted by the Bulldogs on a beautiful centering pass by Kellar Turner.

Misfortune would strike, however, as Peach County came storming back. A header that rose just out of the goal keeper’s out stretched hand would put one on the board for the Trojans. Less than a minute later Peach County struck again and tied the game at two.

The second half was all Trojans as they took the lead 9 minutes in, making the score 3-2. Peach County would net another goal on a hard struck ball by Branden Glover and, after a successful penalty kick, the score was 5-2.

Peach County continued to put the pressure on, not allowing the Bulldogs any room to develop their offense. With 15 minutes left in the game the Trojans stretched their lead to four with a goal by Micah Griggs. Turner would give the Bulldogs some life soon after as he sent the ball to the back of the net to bring his team within three. The Trojans would score quickly after, regaining their four goal lead.

The situation worsened for Thomasville when senior and vocal leader Josh May went down with a leg injury and had to leave the game.

The Bulldogs were able to get some offense going when Nic Connell scored off a cross, making it 7-4 Trojans. That would remain the score until the clock hit zero and Thomasville was eliminated from the playoffs.

Before the contest was complete, however, May was able to return. He limped across the turf for the final minute of the game, ensuring he finished his career on the field.

“It’s just seniors,” said Peterson. “I was trying to get Josh finishing on the field.”

Speaking on his group of seniors Peterson said, “They’ve meant a lot to the program, worked really hard. I’m proud of them and proud of the things they’ve accomplished.”