Fifth straight clean sheet for No. 1 Men's Soccer

By: Thiago Neuenschwander
Humber Athletics Communications

ANCASTER - It took just one half for the Humber Hawks men's soccer team to extend their winning streak, achieve their fifth consecutive victory, and keep the top spot in the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) Western Conference. In an inspired second half, they overwhelmed the Redeemer Royals 4-0 this Wednesday (October 2nd), with goals from Riviere (2), Ball, and an own goal. 

Match Recap

Fueled by their crushing performance last weekend, when they scored 18 goals in just two matches (Lambton Lions 13-0 and St. Clair Saints 5-0), the Humber Hawks arrived in Ancaster with elevated morale, seeking another victory this season. Holding the top national position in the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) rankings, Michael Aquino's team did not immediately find the same ease as in the last two rounds. The Royals, with a record of four wins and two losses up to that point, posed difficulties in a first half marked by high balls into the box and few clear scoring opportunities.

With both teams trying to close down spaces to avoid further risks, the first chance to open the scoring came only in the 19th minute. Hawks midfielder Christian Keshishian, who had scored six goals in the last two matches, tried to surprise goalkeeper Matthew Derks with a long-range shot, but the attempt was defended without much trouble. Gradually, the Royals also tried to find the net through counterattacks. In the 30th and 32nd minutes, Stephen Barnhoorn shot towards Peter Sheberstov's goal but failed to threaten the net on either occasion.

At the beginning of the second half, the Hawks had two clear chances with Franz Mella to open the scoring. After a defensive error from the Royals, the number 10 faced the goal and attempted to chip the goalkeeper, but the ball hit the crossbar. Two minutes later, in a play on the right, the midfielder shot into the bottom corner, forcing Derks to make a brilliant save. The frantic start startled the home team, which withdrew and watched the Hawks gradually take control of the game.

After establishing that dominance, the goal finally arrived. In the 70th minute, Mella, who had wasted the two best opportunities until then, took a free kick from midfield, and the Royals' defender headed the ball into his net, opening the scoring in Ancaster. The goal completely destabilized the home team, who, a minute later, saw the Hawks extend their lead. After a long pass from the defence, the goalkeeper made a mistake, and the ball fell at the feet of Marcus Riviere, who only had to cover it to score the second goal of the match.

With a comfortable lead, Michael Aquino's team began to control the game and value possession. The Royals struggled to respond to the strong play of the blue team, and the third goal quickly followed. In an individual play on the left, Jacob Ball evaded a defender and scored his third tally of the season. The fourth came soon after. Matias Lescano crossed from the right for Riviere to tap in. It was the second goal of the match for the striker and his fifth of the season. With the rout established, the Hawks managed the clock to secure their sixth victory, reach 19 points, and isolate themselves at the top of the OCAA Western Conference.

What's Next?

No. 1 Humber returns to the field on Saturday, October 5th at 4 p.m. against the Mohawk Mountaineers at Tim Hortons Field in Hamilton.