It has been a tough start to the season for the 2014 Niagara College women's soccer program. Despite a strong and at times, dominant play on the field, the Knights have opened the season with a record of 0-6. Travelling to Sarnia on Sunday, September 28th saw the Knights defeat the Lambton Lions (0-5-1, 9th West) by a 3-0 score to pick up their first win of 2014.
First-year players provided the bulk of the Knights offense and defense in the contest. Goals came from a trio of rookies in Julia Pantusa (Niagara Falls), Flavia Brunet (Brazil) and Emily Babcock (Caledon), while goalkeeper Brittany Haanapel (Niagara Falls) earned her first career OCAA shut out by turning aside eight Lambton shots.
"The win was a relief because I was running out of ways to tell them they played well enough to win", said Knights head coach Frank DeChellis. "I was also sick of hearing opposing coaches, however kind, telling us they can't believe we haven't won. Today is a day that all our players should be happy with."
Emily Sexton (Welland) and Sarah Morris (Niagara Falls) were standouts for the Knights this weekend as well. "Emily and Sarah played their best soccer since joining this program", added Coach DeChellis. "Both are back with us next year and that is great news."
On Saturday, Jackie Lawther (Grimsby) netted her first goal of the season, as the Knights fell to the St. Clair Saints (4-0-2, 3rd West).
All weekend long Nicole Forbes (Ajax) and Jackie Lawther were the Knights engine room. "Nicole and Jackie were nothing short of impressive for us over those two games," said Coach DeChellis. "They are quiet leaders with strong backgrounds and they really set a good example for our younger players."
The 2014 regular season finale is up next for the Knights, as they host the Mohawk Mountaineers (2-3-1, 6th West). Kick-off is slated for 4:00pm on October 2nd at Youngs SportsPlex in Welland.