MSOC | Voyageurs Blank Ridgebacks, Leap Back Into Playoffs

The Voyageurs men's soccer team refused to just let the season pass by them as they had a statement victory on Friday afternoon when they beat the UOIT Ridgebacks by a score of 1-0.

The first half was dominated by the Voyageurs from start to finish. Most of the play centred on the Ridgebacks' territory as the Vees had greater possession of the ball. Consequently, numerous scoring opportunities arose but none found the back of the net. For instance, the Voyageurs had good back to back scoring opportunities in the 20^th and 21^st minutes but were unable to covert; the latter belonged to fourth year forward Dean Pizolinas. Just nine minutes later though, in the 32^nd minute, Pizolinas would redeem himself and gave Laurentian a one goal lead when he struck a gorgeous volley from the edge of the box and into the net. The first half would come to a close without a change in the scoreline or the style of play/intensity from Laurentian.

However, UOIT came out in the second with a sense of urgency. They had possession of the ball early and marched forward towards the Voyageurs' net but Laurentian's defence stood its ground and did not allow an equalizer. Both teams were on even footing as the rest of the half progressed but the Ridgebacks were in a much more offensive mood. However nothing came of it. Additionally, late in the second half, a series of spectacular saves in the same sequence (one from his knees) from Voyageurs goalkeeper Connor Vande Weghe prevented the Ridgebacks their equalizer. These saves were crucial since they determined three points for the Voyageurs and not one.

With a win today, Laurentian now occupies the final playoff spot with five more games left in the season. They will now look to extend their lead over seventh placed UOIT on Saturday afternoon when they take on the Trent Excalibur at 1 pm.

Wali Khan