The Safford Bulldogs kicked off their inaugural soccer season in a convincing fashion by winning their first two games over Pusch Ridge (4-2) on Tuesday and Santa Cruz (2-0) on Thursday.

"It's these kids who have played hard," Bulldogs head coach Duane DeSpain said. "It's their victory, and that's how it is going to be every game - it's the kids' win. If we come across a loss sometime this season its going to be because of coaching. These kids want it and are playing hard."

Pusch Ridge played a clean and controlled game on Tuesday, but DeSpain said the 'Dogs' "speed was able to overcome their possession play." Nick Carpenter netted the 'Dogs' first-ever goal on a penalty kick in the 26th minute, and Safford led 1-0 at half.

Carpenter scored again in the second half, and Jacob Williams added a pair to secure the 4-2 win.

Against Santa Cruz on Thursday, the 'Dogs played a much more physical and hard-hitting team, and Safford's defense played well enough to claim its first-ever shutout.

Carpenter put the 'Dogs' first score on the board with a penalty kick in the 29th minute, and Safford held a 1-0 lead at half.

Williams collected his third goal of the year in the 71st minute when he chipped in the ball from just in front of the net for the Bulldogs' second score.

"We had good scoring from our strikers (against Pusch Ridge) and again today (against Santa Cruz)," DeSpain said. "(Carpenter) and (Williams) each know how to put the ball in the net, and they're doing a great job of it."

The Bulldogs' next home match is Monday against Sahuarita at 4 p.m.