The York University Lions women's soccer team continued its search for its first win of the season in home game action Sunday and emerged with the victory after a late goal by Haley Walsh broke a deadlock en route to a 2-1 win over the Brock Badgers at Alumni Field.
 
Heading into this game, the Lions had been victorious in the previous 15 games they have played against the Badgers. The heat on the field matched the warm weather, making for an exciting afternoon match.
 
The first half saw both teams match aggression and intensity. There were many near misses and outstanding catches by goalkeepers Taylor Grant (Brampton, Ont.) of the Lions and Marilena Spagnola (St. Catherines, Ont.) of the Badgers. Despite everyone's best efforts both teams walked away scoreless at halftime.
 
The second half brought more aggression and intensity. The scoring drought came to an end when second-year forward Stephanie Lamanna (Pickering, Ont.) scored in the 65^th minute of play, with an assist by Kendra Saxton (Waterloo, Ont.). The Badgers quickly took back the ball and Cassandra Stirpe scored on a shot initially deflected by Grant in the 74^th minute.
 
To continue the eventful second half, Walsh (Markham, Ont.) of the Lions scored in the 89^th minute of play. Walsh is finally returning to play after being sidelined by various injuries over the last couple of years, and she has proven herself a force to be reckoned with in midfield.
Walsh's goal closed the game, which saw the Lions celebrate their first win of the season to improve their record to 1-4-2 on the season.
 
The Lions' next game will see them trekking to Guelph, Ont., on Sept. 20 to face the Guelph Gryphons. They will return to Alumni Field Saturday, Sept. 30 at 1pm against the Waterloo Warriors.