The Abbotsford Magnuson Ford United premier men’s soccer team defeated the Port Moody Gunners 3-0 in the Pakenham Cup final on Sunday afternoon at South Surrey Athletic Park.
The Pakenham Cup is one of Canada’s oldest amateur athletic competitions dating back to 1909, and the last time an Abbotsford team last won this coveted trophy was in 1995.
After a nervous start for both teams, the crowd of over 400 was treated to some good, competitive soccer worthy of a Cup final.
Colton O’Neill broke the deadlock in the 44th minute with a well-placed shot to the far post following an Abbotsford corner kick, and after the half, the Abby side played with more confidence and creativity, setting Port Moody back on their heels.
After Abbotsford missed a penalty kick and headed two shots off the crossbar, keeper Mark Village was called upon to make a diving fingertip save to keep Port Moody off the score sheet. Up until that point, a strong showing by the Abbotsford midfield and back line kept Port Moody opportunities to a minimum.
With the Gunners pressing for a tying goal, Abbotsford took advantage with some quick counter-attacks and were rewarded in the 67th minute when Connor O’Neill doubled Abbotsford’s lead, converting a feed from his twin brother Colton. Just six minutes later, Justin Sekhon scored a breakaway goal that highlighted his speed and calm manner on the ball.
Connor O’Neill (pictured right) was selected as the man of the match by the Cup committee, and the victory punched the local side’s ticket to the Provincial Cup tournament.
Next up for the men’s premier team is the Soccer City Cup final next Friday at 7:30 p.m. at Gates Park in Port Coquitlam, where they’ll face the same Port Moody Gunners team.
