Coming off of two back-to-back wins against the McMaster Marauders, the No. 6 nationally ranked York University Lions men's soccer team was looking to replicate their success. However, the Guelph Gryphons had different plans as they upset the Lions 1-0 Friday night at the York Lions Stadium.
With the loss, the Lions now stand with a 6-2-2 record, with two games remaining in the season, York will aim to fortify their position in preparation for the playoffs.
HOW IT HAPPENED:
- From the first whistle, both the Lions and the Gryphons engaged in a spirited contest, with the midfield becoming a battleground for possession.
- In the 38th minute, the visitors conjured some magic, as Dante Ruddock capitalized on a deflection off a York defender to redirect the ball past Alessio Carbone to secure a 1-0 lead going into halftime.
- The Gryphons defence was put to the test as the second half kicked off, with the Lions mounting sustained attacks, launching a total of 11 shots on target in pursuit of an equalizer.
- Chris Melino crafted the standout opportunity of the night for York during extra minutes, but the cross narrowly missed his head, leaving the fans with their head in their hands.
- Despite the efforts by the Lions, the scoreboard remained unaltered, as the Gryphons took home a 1-0 victory.
LOOKING AHEAD:
Heading into the final stretch of the regular season, the Lions, with two games remaining, will look to bounce back as they travel to St. Catherines to face the top-seeded Brock Badgers of the OUA West. The match is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 20, with an 8:15 pm kick-off.
