The York University Lions men's soccer team survived the Western Mustangs on the quarter-finals after Tyler Attardo netted the game winner in overtime.

Thanks to Lions leading goal scorer, the red and white side are one win away from advancing to the OUA Championship game.

In order for them to make it, they need to first beat a dominant Ontario Tech team, who finished second in the OUA East with an 8-1-3 record in regular season. The Ontario Tech side finished second in the conference in goals (36), first in assists (26), first for penalty kicks (6-6), and first in shutouts (6).

The numbers posted throughout the season are proof that this will not be an easy side to beat. But it can be done. 

The Lions showed numerous times this year their work ethic and ability to battle back on the field. Whether that be the game remaining scoreless until they could net one in the final minutes, or climbing their way back onto the score sheet in the second half. The York Lions never put their heads down this season, and after facing a couple of unfortunate losses, they immediately bounced back the next day.

The Lions bench runs deep, allowing for Master Head Coach Carmine Isacco to utilize all of his players when they need to be called on. Any player can easily slip onto the field and the game does not change course. First-year Maverick Wright proved just that int eh quarter-final game against Western, assisting the game winning goal to Tyler Attardo. Matthew Mollicola has stepped up big this season and has been a crucial part of the team's success throughout their entire season.

The team has relied heavily on the goalkeeping of Alessio Carbone to keep them locked in on very important games and he has risen to the challenge. He made six important saves in the game against Western, helping them advance to the semi-finals this Wednesday.

The Lions and Ridgebacks step up to the plate at York Lions Stadium on Wednesday, Nov. 1, with the game set for 8:00pm kickoff.