By: Pedro Casellatto
The Centennial Women's Soccer team stepped up and brought home the silver medal in the OCAA Indoor Soccer Season. After a great performance to get to the final, the Colts were able to climb another round compared to last year, when they lost in the semifinals and got the bronze medal.
This time, the team led by head coach Rich Hirst took control over the semi-final game against the Durham Lords and qualified for the final. After allowing the Lords to score the opener, the Colts had to fight back, and in the second half, they had one of the most efficient games for the Colts. Their defence was strong, and they were patient to keep possession of the ball and attack when they had the chance. After finding some space in the box, Alyssia Devellis scored the equalizer for the Colts. That gave comfort to the Colts as they breathed and reorganized. A few minutes after the first goal, Vanessa Lima played a quick one-two with Mylie DeCoff and scored the second to clinch the spot in the final.
It was a very special moment for the Colts squad. After going undefeated in regionals and fighting hard for a playoff spot the day before, they then had the chance to be in the most important game of the tournament. The energy was good, and they were set to battle the Seneca Sting in the gold medal game.
The second game had an intense start, especially on the Colts' side. They kept possession and were trying to figure out a way to get through the opponent's stacked defence. There were many tries, but they could not find enough space and get ahead in the first half. In addition, in one of the few opportunities they created in the first half, the Sting scored in the final seconds, going to halftime with less pressure. That was reflected in the second half, as the Colts rushed, trying to tie up the game. The Sting had the momentum on their side, scoring again off a penalty kick and in a quick counter-attack. The Colts were able to get one of a couple deflections by Emily Cullen, but not quick enough to make it a comeback.
Although the colour of the medal was not the one they were looking for, the indoor season was still very successful for the Scarborough team. A team with a good mix of talent and motivation, they were still able to get to the final match and show a lot of quality in their game. Once again, they give the fans a remarkable show and get another medal for this successful program.
After the game, the team was awarded the Regionals Champion Plaque as well as two players recieving high honours. Jordyn Chrons-Slaght was named the Top Goalkeeper in Provincials, while Emily Cullen continued to dominate the OCAA awards as she added another Indoor Soccer Tournament All-Star to her resume.
Another very successful season for the Women's Soccer Team. The team has continued to improve over the past couple years and who knows what is yet to come for this team.