For the first time since 2010, the Niagara College women's soccer program is heading to the playoffs. After finishing the 2015 OCAA regular season with a record of 4-3-2, the Knights entering the post-season riding a high having lost just one of their last eight matches.
The Knights will travel Windsor on Saturday, October 24th to face the St. Clair Saints at 1:00pm. The two teams did not meet during the regular season, as the former OCAA West division rivals now compete in the Cntral (Niagara) and West (St. Clair) Divisions.
"We haven't seen St. Clair this season but we are familiar with their style of play. They have scored a lot of goals, so we have worked to be more focused in our defensive roles heading into the match."
Despite their strong finish to the regular season, the Knights have battled injuries to a majority of their lineup throughout the season, and after the team's 4-2 defeat of the University of Toronto-Mississauga Eagles in their regular season finale, appear to be getting healthy at the right time.
DeChellis continued "this is our first game where I can say most of our team is healthy. And that's a statement I have not been able to make that since our second match."
The Knights enter the playoffs anchored by a group of experienced and veteran players including leading scorer Jackie Lawther, and midfield anchors Emily Babcock and Rebecca Morrison. The team will continue to lean on the trio in the OCAA's second season.
"Are we stronger than last year? I wouldn't say stronger but more experienced, and that has made a world of difference" added DeChellis. "Although I am looking for our best players to be our best players, it's going to be what our supporting cast does that will decide our fate against St. Clair."
