The York University Lions men's soccer team only dropped one match this season. Unfortunately for them, it was the most important one.
IIn a result that most would agree was nothing short of shocking, the York Lions were ousted in the OUA quarter-finals by the Waterloo Warriors in a 3-1 decision at Alumni Field Saturday afternoon.
The loss is a historic one for the Lions. This is the first time since 2012 they haven't played in the OUA final, and the first time since 2009 they haven't won a medal in OUA competition.
HOW IT HAPPENED
- The game began with the Warriors controlling play early, as had several good chances being created by their front three.
- York managed to survive the first half with the game scoreless. They had a great chance at the start of the second, as a ball fell to Milo Djuricic from a corner taken by Joe Mack. The Lions were unable to capitalize, however.
- Some brilliant wing play from Sammy Ssabeduka saw him create a chance for Justin Cicchillo who could not convert the low cross and ended up hurt on the play. He was replaced by Matthew Mollicola.
- A few moments later, a penalty kick was called for York, and it was struck home by Joe Mac, who was initially fouled for the penalty, to give the Lions a 1-0 lead in the 58th minute.
- Waterloo responded quickly, just beyond the hour mark, with Matheus Mello evening things up after tricky play in the box with Sasha Dmitrovic getting the assist
- Waterloo continued to gain momentum with their reward being a second goal scored by Will Ratelband on a header in the 81st minute
- A few minutes later Seb Guerrieri's shot from long range found the top corner of Cabrone's net after an assist from James Arango to make it 3-1 Warriors and solidify the shocking upset.
With the loss, the No. 1 ranked team in Canada is out of contention for an OUA championship, and the focus now shifts to next season. We would like to thank the eight graduating Lions for their time and dedication to our program.
