The York University Lions soccer teams hit the road for a weekend doubleheader against the Algoma Thunderbirds at Algoma University. Both teams faced rainy and sunny weather conditions on Saturday afternoon, with the women's team looking to rebound after their loss to the Guelph Gryphons on Monday, and the men's team aiming to build on their recent tie with the Gryphons. Algoma's women's team was seeking their first win of the season, while the men's team hoped to secure their second victory. Women's Match:
The Lions wasted no time getting on the board. Nia Fleming-Thompson opened the scoring at the 10-minute mark, quickly followed by a second goal just four minutes later with a well-placed shot from the top of the box. The Lions' offensive pressure continued as Maia Torelli added York's third goal at the 22nd minute. Sabrina Fabiano joined in, scoring York's fourth goal at the 28th minute and capping off the first half with her second goal right at the 45-minute mark, sending the Lions into halftime with a commanding 5-0 lead.
In the second half, Algoma tightened their defence, but the Lions still found ways to break through. Hope Windebank netted her first goal of the season at the 72nd minute, followed by Anna-Sofia Pinelli adding to the scoreline at the 84th minute. Alexandra Quaidoo wrapped up the scoring with her second goal of the season at the 88th minute, sealing a dominant 8-0 victory for York. Men's Match:
The men's team got off to an explosive start with an early goal by Yigal Bruk, assisted by James Fidalgo just three minutes into the match. Shortly after, Luca Accettola doubled York's lead with a goal in the 7th minute. Algoma responded with a penalty kick converted by their captain, Luke Harrop, closing the gap to 2-1.
The second half saw both teams showcasing strong defence, but York broke through again in the 48th minute with a header from Matthew Medeiros, extending the lead to 3-1. Algoma's Thierry Nsega managed to score at the 57th minute, making it 3-2, but York's Matthew Fischer sealed the game with a goal at the 78th minute, giving the Lions a 4-2 victory. LOOKING AHEAD:
Both Lions teams will face Algoma again tomorrow, Sunday, September 22, 2024, with the women kicking off at 1:00 p.m. and the men at 3:15 p.m. Both teams are looking to extend their winning momentum against the Thunderbirds.