Gage Smith scores Triton’s first goal on a penalty kick.
(Dunn Area Sports Photo/Paul Burgett)

Triton edged host Harnett Central in a Tri-County Six 3-A Conference varsity boys soccer match on penalty kicks Wednesday evening after regulation play and overtime periods ended in a tie at 2.

The Hawks (4-4-2, 2-0) got the first two goals on the way to their fourth straight win. Gage Smith scored on a penalty kick in the fourth minute and Joshua Dixon provided a 2-0 lead on an unassisted tally in the 33rd minute.

The Trojans (1-5-2, 0-2) were within 2-1 at the half as Luis Silva tallied in the 36th minute on an assist from Angel Ramirez.

Central pulled even in the 47th minute as Brandon Cervantes scored on a feed from Johnathan Solis.

In the penalty kick phase, Central goalie David Aguirre stopped the first two attempts by the Hawks. The teams were even at 3 after five shots each in the deciding round.

Leonardo Hernandez scored in the sixth round for Triton when Central did not convert.

“We started the season against some very stiff competition and we weren’t quite ready,” said Hawks coach Brian Foster. “I feel like we’ve improved greatly and should be able to challenge in conference this year.”

Triton was scheduled to play at Hobbton on Thursday night, weather permitting. The Trojans travel to Union Pines for a league match on Monday evening.

Central’s Jonathan Solis (13) makes a pass under pressure.
(Dunn Area Sports Photo/Paul Burgett)

Central goalie David Aguirre makes a first-half save.
(Dunn Area Sports Photo/Paul Burgett)

Triton’s Paul Wells uses a header to connect on the attack.
(Dunn Area Sports Photo/Paul Burgett)

Angel Ramirez looks to maneuver between Hawks.
(Dunn Area Sports Photo/Paul Burgett)

Joshua Dixon (11) of Triton goes on the attack.
(Dunn Area Sports Photo/Paul Burgett)

Brandon Cervantes (7) is congratulated after scoring HC’s second goal.
(Dunn Area Sports Photo/Paul Burgett)

Triton goalie Cristian Delcid makes a save in the closing PK phase.
(Dunn Area Sports Photo/Paul Burgett)

Leonardo Hernandez had the deciding penalty kick for the Hawks.
(Dunn Area Sports Photo/Paul Burgett)

Triton coach Brian Foster (left) takes a moment with HC goalie David Aguirre.
(Dunn Area Sports Photo/Paul Burgett)