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WSOC: GMU (2) at MRU (1)

The Mount Royal women's soccer team succumbed 1-2 to the current USPORT National Champions, Grant MacEwan University, Sunday in an afternoon match-up.

MRU took the lead early when Kareena Kassam was able to capitalize on a pass coming from Athena Fourlas in the 12th minute. This invigorated the team against their larger opponents and kept their energy high.

GMU came back with intention, with a near goal opportunity going just wide of the right post seconds later. 

The Griffins weren't able to score for nearly 30 minutes after the Cougars. Hannah Supina battled Athena Fourlas on a run up the line before getting a cross off from low in the left corner. Grace Mwasalla was ready for the reception and got her leg up in time to tip the ball past an outstretched Lizzy Knight. 

Game play was even for the next 40 minutes of play, with the Cougars making a total four shots on goal compared to the Griffins six.

In the 82nd minute, Grant MacEwan was able to take the lead for the first time all game. Alyx Henderson was able to force a turnover on MRUs Sophie Kinghorn before slipping one just out of reach of Knight and into the left side of the goal.

The Cougars increased their pressure and intensity on attack but were unable to tie it up before the final whistle blew. 

Isabella Chirico, Ashtyn Haycock and Alexi Watson all put forth their best effort for all 90 minutes, holding the back line against a powerful GMU offence, but Chirico came away with player of the game. 

Her constant movement on the field allowed her both to be a pillar on defence and a necessary support on offence, as well her composure on the pitch helped to keep her teammates calm as the tension rose. 

"I'm pretty proud of the team and our performance today, especially in the first half," said Chirico. "We definitely had them really well. And to be going up against the defending national champions?I think being the under dogs here, I think we played really well." 

The girls go into this week preparing for two road games in Saskatchewan. First up is the University of Saskatchewan on Saturday followed by the University of Regina on Sunday.

"I think just finishing that final third right, and just connecting with the ball. Like we are doing really well in staying connected in the back, I think it's just getting that final four and sealing the deal," said Chirico. "I'm just super proud of the team and I'm super happy with the growth of this team and I'm super pumped for the years to come."

Catch next weekend's game live on Canada West TV for their 2 p.m. start.

Go Cougars.

Player of the Game: Isabella Chirico



Away Games:

MSOC: MRU (1) at VIC (0)