The Golden Riots trimmed the Stars 2-1 in U18 Girls soccer action down at Qualicum Beach Rec Fields Sunday, but more important than the final score was the effort and quality of soccer on display at the local derby.
“It was an excellent game — really hard fought,” Stars’ coach Mike Watson said after, adding, “the girls played really well. They both played their hearts out and left everything on the field.
“It probably came down to a technical error on my part that cost us the loss, but at the end of the day they’re a really good bunch, and we’re pretty proud around hear to have two good teams like that.”
Both teams are comprised mainly of U16 and U17 players.
“It was a great game,” echoed Golden Riots’ coach Chris Wilson.
Kelsey O’Conner buried a cross from Kim Watson to stake the Stars to a 1-nil lead five minutes in.
The Golden Riots’ replied shortly before the break when Rebecca Collins slotted home a cracker feed from Carmina Rocheleau.
“It was a beauty play,” chucked Watson.
“Carmina had a breakaway on the goalie and side-footed it across the box to a streaking Rebecca who tapped it in.”
Charlie Hopkins scored the winner midway through the second half when was spring off a cleared corner.
“It was a really good tilt,” said Wilson. “They hit the cross bar with about six minutes left in the game shortly after their goalie made a spectacular diving one-handed save.”
The win ups the Golden Riots’ regular season record to 8-2-3 and has them sitting second in the eight-team NDYSA league with three games remaining.
The Stars slip to fourth at 5-4-3.
GAME ON
Both teams have a bye this week.
