The Niagara College men's and women's soccer programs both lost in heartbreaking fashion to the Sheridan Bruins on Friday, October 4th. In the women's match the Bruins scored on a penalty kick in the 77th minute to secure a 1-0 victory. On the men's side, the Bruins scored the go-ahead goal in the 93 minute to secure a 3-1 win.
After the women's match, Knights' head coach Frank DeChellis commented, "today was our best effort of the season against the second place Bruins"
The Knights received strong play from Trista Andrews (Mississauga), Robyn DeKlerk (Dunnville) and Lexy Gilby (St Catharines). Each were able to generate quality scoring chances only to be turned away. Goalkeeper Melanie Bajic (Grismby) continued her outstanding play this season, turning away numerous shots on goal.
An accidental hand ball in the penalty area during the 77th minute proved the difference in the hard fought match as Ali Palmer converted the ensuing penalty kick for the Bruins.
In the men's match, the Knights played some of their strongest soccer of the season for a full 90 minutes.
The Bruins opened the scoring just six minutes into the match. The Knights battled back eventually shifting momentum over the next 45 minutes.
In the 51st minute forward Christian Carvajal (St Catharines) converted a setup by Austin MacDonell (Pickering) and Jordi Amores (St Catharines) to bring the Knights even with the Bruins.
The Knights controlled play throughout most of the second half, until much like the women's contest, a free kick ended up costing the team.
In the 93rd minute Knights defenders fouled a Bruins player just outside the 18 yard penalty area. On the resulting free kick Bruins captain David Velasegui scored the game winner. The Bruins would go on to add a third goal just seconds later.
After the match, Knights head coach Frank DeChellis commented "we can win. But to be a championship program we need to learn how to win games against top teams. We need to play for 90+ minutes starting from minute number one. We're getting there as a program, but setbacks like today make the lesson that much more evident and painful. We are heading in the right directions. We have the right type of athletes coming and strong institutional support from Niagara College."
The men's and women's soccer programs will wrap up their 2013 seasons on Sunday, October 6th when the teams host the Lambton Lions. The Niagara College men's program will need a win to secure a spot in the OCAA postseason. Both matches will be held at Youngs Sportsplex . Kickoff for the women`s game is set for 3:00pm while the men will take the field at 5:00pm
