ANCASTER, ON.  The Redeemer Women's Soccer team wins the OCAA West Division for the first time in program history. The Redeemer Royals hosted cross-town rival the Mohawk Mountaineers Saturday afternoon. There were valuable points on the line for Redeemer and Mohawk that could assist in playoff match-ups.

Before Saturday's match began the Royals had the opportunity to celebrate six graduating athletes and their contributions. This year's senior class included Mia Palango, Tia Lee, Morgan Deweerd, Alyssa Simpson and Breanne Forrest. 

The first half kicked off with a packed Redeemer crowd awaiting history. The Royals got to work early as they usually do, maintaining quality possession in the opponent's half. Mohawk was able to distinguish the Royals opening chances and counter will several of their own. 

Late in the first half of action, Redeemer keeper Sarah de Jong had a game-changing save on a breakaway Mohawk forward. The Mountaineers forward broke through the defensive line and rifled a shot for 15 yards out. de Jong shut the door and the Royals crowd went wild. 

At the half, neither side could break the score. Redeemer outshot the Mountaineers 7-5 in the opening forty-five minutes. 

Second half action got under way and the Royals turned up the pressure. Redeemer, needing a win to guarantee the top seed, were desperate for a second-half goal.

Redeemer controlled the entire possession in the second.  The Royals steadily built their attack and had countless high-quality opportunities that were shut down one step away from a goal.

The clock continued to count closer to ninety minutes but the Royals had yet to beat the Mountaineers keeper. Redeemer Royals forward Morgan Deweerd had the game on her foot in the extra time but the Mohawk keeper came up huge with a save. 

Mohawk played Redeemer to a draw 0-0.  Following the Royals draw, Redeemer patiently awaited the result of the Saint Clair Saints match. Given the Royals draw, the Redeemer needed Saint Clair to lose or draw against the Conestoga Condors.  Saint Clair was trailing 1-0 into the ninetieth minute where they drew a penalty kick. The Saints capitalized on the penalty and tied the Condors. 

The Redeemer Royals secured the top seed in the OCAA West heading into the playoffs. With the top seed, Redeemer will have the opportunity to host an OCAA quarter-final if they advance to that round. Redeemer women's soccer begins their playoff journey at home where they host the Fanshawe Falcons. Round one of the OCAA playoffs begin on Wednesday October 16th at 6:00 PM.

Redeemer Royals fans now is the time to come support your Royals. See you Wednesday.