Both University of Calgary soccer teams continued their successful season last weekend with an exciting trip to colourful Lethbridge. The Dinos went in hoping to kick ass and left town with big smiles on their faces. The men defeated the Pronghorns 3-0 in a stunning display of offensive brilliance and defensive toughness. The women were equally impressive beating Lethbridge 2-0.
The men opened up the scoring just 25 seconds into the first half on a goal by Colin Smith.
"We were ready right from the get go," said men’s Head Coach Andy Gibbs. "We took the wind right out of them."
Brian Newmarch added another goal just before halftime and the Dinos cruised to victory on a two-goal lead. David Hernandez-Cachero added the final goal with a minute left to play.
The victory meant the Dinos kept pace with the University of British Columbia and the University of Victoria, both ahead of the U of C in the standings.
"It’ll be a battle between one, two and three this weekend," said Gibbs. "It could be viewed as a playoff preview, or a chance to rest some injured players."
J.P. Khouri, Ryan Groen and Andrew Zakaluzny are all nursing injuries and may get some rest if the Dinos clinch the playoffs this weekend.
The women stayed perfect this season with a solid effort against Lethbridge. Calgary won 2-0 on goals by Hema Chengukalah and Leanne Pelosi. Goaltender Taryn Swiatek and the Dinos defence recorded their sixth regular season shutout, extending their amazing streak. Next up for the women are Victoria and UBC this weekend where the Dinos will defend their Canada West lead against two teams in the national top 10.
"[This is] definitely going to be a tough weekend," said team captain Juliamai Giffen. "We had trouble scoring on them before so we have to make sure we put a couple in the back of the net."
Women’s Head Coach Robin Slot shares Giffen’s outlook.
"Our defence has been great but we haven’t scored as many goals as we would like," Slot remarked.
With first place on the line for both teams, Dinos’ fans can look forward to exciting soccer at Forest Lawn athletic park this weekend. The women kick off at noon Saturday and Sunday with the men’s games starting immediately after. Come support your Dinos in their quest for glory on the pitch.