NATCHEZ — Natchez High soccer coach Dennis Hogue was surprised at how well the Bulldogs played Terry High in the first half Saturday.

Although Natchez lost 5-0 in the district game, Hogue said it could have been much worse against the best team in the region.

“They’re the most solid team we’ve played all year,” he said. “They’re just good, plain and simple.”

Terry was up just 1-0 at halftime, and the visiting Bulldogs had taken six or seven shots on the goal.

“George Bates, our amazing goalkeeper, made some amazing saves,” Hogue said.

But the home Dogs’ effort in the first half gave way to fatigue in the second half, and Natchez could no longer stand up to Terry’s charge.

Part of the problem was the lack of players. Natchez had just two people on the bench compared to about 20 for Terry.

“They were just a better team as far as moving the ball more efficiently,” Hogue said. “In the second half we were just worn out. We couldn’t continue to contend.”

Natchez is now 1-10-1. The Bulldogs host another district matchup against Wingfield Tuesday at 5:30 p.m.

Terry girls 8, Natchez 0

The Lady Bulldogs got a beating from Terry High Saturday, thanks in part to an abbreviated list of available players.

Three of Natchez’ best players were not present for the game.

“Lena (Yarbrough, the girls’ coach) called and said she might not even have enough people to play the game,” Hogue said. “One girl, Shelby Guice, had an aunt pass away. She’s the main go-to girl.”

Two more Lady Bulldogs had a previously scheduled event to attend, and Natchez played with one person on its bench.