WSOC | Voyageurs Draw Gaels
The Voyageurs played to a tough 1-1 draw against the Queen's Gaels on Saturday afternoon as they looked to make strides in the Eastern Conference playoff race.
Both teams were pretty evenly matched during the first half with the Gaels mounting a slight increased pressure on the Voyageur defence. The first half was highlighted by a spectacular diving save from Laurentian goalkeeper Cailtin McNamara in the 25th minute of the match, denying the Gaels their best opportunity to score on a free kick. The Voyageurs got their best opportunity to score on a free kick as well, by Megan Chiovitti, but were unfortunately unable to convert. Finally, a good goal scoring opportunity from the Gaels in the dying minutes of the half was thwarted by fourth year defender Bianca Breiding when one of the forwards broke through the defensive line was in alone on goal. Neither team would be able to find the back of the net and the first half would come to and with both teams deadlocked at 0-0.
However, the Voyageurs came out flying in the second. Just six minutes in, a cross from Mia De Gasperis found Cassandra Cristiano who deposited the ball at the back of the net for her second of the season. Following the opening marker, the Gaels would up the intensity of their play - while the Voyageur defence would hold its ground, it gave way in the 65th minute when Jenny Wolever equalized on an unassisted goal. Both teams pressed on for the rest of the half to find the go ahead goal but were unable to do so and the game would end as a 1-1 draw.
"We showed grit and determination battled a very good Queens squad to a 1-1 draw", said Coach Gallo while assessing his team's performance.
The Voyageurs now sit just three points out of a playoff spot and prepare to host the RMC Paladins on Sunday at 12 pm at James Jerome Sports Complex.
Wali Khan