No. 9 Men's Soccer cruises to first postseason victory
By: William Shoukri
Humber Athletics Communications
ETOBICOKE, ON: It was a cool, breezy day at Ontario Soccer Centre as Humber soccer (8-2-1, 2nd West) steamrolled Mohawk College (2-7-2, 7th West), in its playoff-qualifying matchup, 4-0.
Match Recap
Humber was in control from kick-off in this one, coming out to a hot start against the Mountaineers. After a good defensive stop from Isaiah Noel, Humber would take the lead in the seventh minute thanks to a Christian Keshishian strike from inside the box. Mohawk's energy would dissipate as the veteran Humber squad dominated physically. The Hawks were content to keep play in the Mohawk zone, as their steady defensive line limited any offence from the visiting Mountaineers. Humber would close out the half with a 1-0 lead and without allowing a shot attempt against.
Mohawk came out determined in the second half down a goal but Humber would continue to thwart their advances. Controlling the ball in the offensive zone, Humber would convert again to make it 2-0. Abdul-Azeez Babawale would score his first goal since September 9th against Redeemer. With Humbers' confidence bolstered after the goal, the Hawks would command the pace of play in the offensive zone. With the Mountaineers on their heels, Babawale would convert again, scoring a beautiful header from deep inside the box. Humber kept up the pressure up 3-0 and in the 88th minute Franz Mella would score his second OCAA goal, a beautiful curving strike from well outside the box. Now up 4-0, Humber would switch into cruise control, keeping possession of the ball until the final whistle.
Humber Highlights
- Humber extends its OCAA postseason win streak to 15 straight matches - dating back to the 2017 season.
- In his tenth season at the helm, the Hawks 27-2 in the OCAA postseason during the Coach Aquino era.
- Humber improves to 31-6-7 against Mohawk College - including 6-1 in the postseason.
What's Next?
No. 9 Humber will face Cambrian (3-6-1, 11th OCAA) on Saturday, October 21, in the OCAA quarter-finals. Kick off is scheduled for 3 pm and will be streamed live on the Hawks Sports Network.
