Campbell River Cermaq defeated top ranked Victoria squad, Bays United FC, by a score of 1-0 on Saturday night.
A rainy, windy Saturday night was the setting for this battle at the Robron turf field.
The home side was looking more and more comfortable playing at the top level of the Vancouver Island Soccer League.
Within the first 20 minutes it was evident that Campbell River was well organized and expecting to score goals.
The back four defenders, with goalkeeper Beau Belle Oudry, were confident and co-ordinated in their efforts.
Going forward, young strikers Blaze Roberts, Wyatt Bryce and Taylor Arbour were quick, direct and tireless in tracking down the ball.
The deadlock was broken around the 28th minute, when the ball was put into the Bays United box. A defensive header dropped at the feet of midfielder Robbie Shaw, who riffled home a half-volley from 20 yards out to put the home team up 1-0.
The visiting team was in complete shock.
Campbell River Cermaq would continue to press, moving the ball forward, transitioning quickly forward and creating opportunities that would work the Bays United keeper.
Striker Matthew Wooff, coming off the wing, was supplying crosses and shots that seemed to leave the Bays defence slightly off balance.
The last 20 minutes of the match was all Bays United FC.
The club was keeping possession of the ball and pushing Cermaq into its own half of the field.
But the home side stayed strong. With constant organization, endless tracking and some strong goal keeping, Cermaq made it into the final whistle with a score of 1-0.
The managerial addition of local coach and former Canadian national team player, Ken Garraway, has certainly sparked this team.
Campbell River Cermaq is attacking with purpose and defending with poise.
A defined game play going into each match.
Campbell River is now ranked eighth on the Island; four points clear of relegation.
Another win would see Cermaq into sixth place.
They are on the road to face off against second place team, Cowichan FC, this coming Sat., Nov. 26.
The last time the two teams met, in September, Campbell River was defeated 3-2 by Cowichan at Willow Point Park.
