The York University Lions women's soccer team opened their 2026 season on Friday night against the Windsor Lancers, and, in so doing, welcomed back a familiar face.
Coming off a 5-4-3 record in 2025, a season that ended with a first-round playoff exit, Nia Fleming-Thompson made her return to the pitch, playing in her first game since York's heartbreaking loss to the Nipissing Lakers in the 2024 OUA semi-final.
The Lions entered the game looking to establish themselves as a cohesive unit in all aspects of the game. From the opening whistle, York came out with intensity, looking to make an early statement.
It didn't take long for the 2024 OUA West MVP to make her presence felt, as Flemming-Thompson recorded the first shot of the game, but was denied by Windsor goalkeeper Izzy Barrette. Both teams quickly found their attacking rhythm, putting pressure on each other's nets, but both Barrette and York keeper Charlotte Phillips – also making her return to the lineup – remained composed between the pipes, each making several saves to keep the game scoreless.
That changed in the 16th minute when Fleming-Thompson this time got the better of Barrette, finding the back of the net, scoring York's first goal of the season in the process to give the Lions an early 1–0 lead.
The Lions continued to apply pressure early in the second half, and just over two minutes into the half, Fleming-Thompson was at it again, buring her second of the evening to extend York's lead to 2–0.
The Lancers attempted to fight their way back into the game, but the visitors maintained control. Windsor struggled to capitalize on their opportunities, with several shots going wide or being stopped by Phillips, who remained a key presence in goal for York.
As the final whistle approached, the Lions held firmly onto their 2–0 advantage and secured their first victory of the season, winning their first season opener since 2021.
LOOKING AHEAD:
the Lions now turn their attention to their home opener against the Western Mustangs on Sunday afternoon. You can get your tickets at yorkulions.ca/tickets, or watch the match free of charge on OUA TV.
