HAWKS ADVANCE TO OCAA CHAMPIONSHIPS BY WAY OF 2-0 WIN
| Final | 1 | 2 | T | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Durham () | 0 | 0 | 0 |
|
Humber () | 1 | 1 | 2 |
VAUGHAN, ON: The Humber Hawks women's soccer team have punched their ticket to the 2016 OCAA Championship Tournament next week in Windsor by way of their 2-0 win over the Durham Lords.
The Hawks dominated play, and if not for the heroics of Lords keeper Heather Travis, Humber would have put up a much larger number. By midway through the first half, the Hawks hit a crossbar and were turned away on three breakaway attempts.
At about the 27 minute mark, freshman sensation Rebecca Spratt cut across the pitch near the top of the 18 yard box and deposited a well-placed shot into the top of the net. Haylie Mackie and Guilia Zanardi were spectacular, grabbing the eyes of the announcer on more than one occasion. Durham showed flashes of offence, but were turned away when trying to play long balls up the middle. Although the Hawks had a huge lead on shots directed and on net, it was Humber leading by the thinnest of margins after the first half of play.
As the second half started, it was evident that the Hawks were content of staying back and protecting the lead. This opened up a few opportunities for the visiting Durham squad, but they were still unable to create a legitimate scoring chance.
The Hawks up their tempo about 20 minutes in, and were rewarded for their efforts, as Zanardi converted a 35 yard strike to extend the lead to 2-0. As they play carried on, the Hawk coaches made a number of changes, and replaced stars Mackie and Rebecca Spratt. Both looked to have a few minor issues, and with a 2-0 lead it was best to save them for the upcoming championships.
As time wound down, Durham created some excitement, by narrowly missing putting a goal on the board. After a stray ball drifted out of bounds in extra time, the official declared the game over.
Jubilation on the Hawks side took place, as the team got together to embrace keeper Vanessa Fiore. Fiore was credited with the shutout.
Humber will now play the host St. Clair Saints to open up the 2016 Championships. The time has yet to be confirmed.
