There is excitement within the Pinnacles FC under-21 men’s team for this weekend. They, along with the women’s under-21 team, will have their home openers at Kings Park. The men’s team has earned two ties and will look to earn their first win against Chilliwack FC Saturday at 5:30 p.m.
Coach Paulo Araujo said work this week has focused on continuing to build on the PFC style of play, which is possession. Araujo doesn’t want his players giving up the ball.
“I’m a big believer that if we keep the ball it gives us more opportunity to win,” said Araujo. “We’re going to take a few more chances on our home field and see if we can come up with a win.”
The Pinnacles will have James Taylor, who has joined them from McGill University and call ups Ryan Jerry and McKenzie Rigg.
The women’s team, coached by Ray Hintz, open their season against Chilliwack FC Saturday at 3 p.m. They then host TSS Academy Black on Sunday at 2 p.m. at Kings Park.
Hintz said he likes the pieces he has so far, but is still waiting on a few players to fill the roster. Missing his top three scorers from last year in Crystal Schuder, Jill Flockhart and Kelsey Rufiange for now, he will count on other players for offence.
“Defensively, we should be OK,” said Hintz. “I don’t think we will be strong off the start so I’m hoping we can get a split this weekend.”
Once all the pieces are in place for his team, Hintz likes what they will be capable of. After this weekend, their next action will be during the May long weekend tournament Penticton hosts annually. Their match with Kelowna United originally scheduled for May 15 has been cancelled.
