WELLAND, ON - The Redeemer Royals opened the season on the road in Welland, ON, on Friday night. The Royals visited the Niagara Knights in the season opener. Last season, the Royals had the upper hand in the only match-up between the two sides, securing a commanding victory 4-1. 

The Knights were eager to settle the score against the Royals, having not beaten the Redeemer side since 2021. Niagara's new squad quickly went to work, finding the back of the net on a partial breakaway in the first five minutes of the match. 

The Reds regained their composure and began to establish their game plan. Coach Rudd entered this season aiming to play a tactical brand of soccer, with an emphasis on controlling possession and generating more high-danger scoring opportunities. This style of play was evident in the early minutes as the Royals countered with an excellent break on goal by Emily Walraven. The star midfielder was stopped by the keeper in a high-quality scoring opportunity.

Niagara and Redeemer traded momentum in the middle of the first half, each showcasing their pace and talent early. Two standout Royals in the first forty-five minutes of action were the two freshman wingers. Hannah Moes and Tautiana Pellegrino had a strong opening half for the Royals side, setting the tone with their fast-paced play on the wing. 

Emily Walraven and the Royals nearly evened the score late in the first half from a set piece deep in the Knights' end. The Niagara keeper fended off the Royals' attack, maintaining the Knights' 1-nil lead into halftime. 

Second-half soccer continued as the first half concluded. The opening twenty minutes of the second half were tightly contested. Neither side was able to capitalize on its opportunities. 

Redeemer's backline, primarily composed of Talia Vreugdenhil and Mya Sieders, did an excellent job fending off the fast-paced strikers of the Knights. The two defenders had a busy night keeping up with and steering away several high-quality opportunities from the Knights.

Redeemer nearly equalized the game in the 90th minute, as the Niagara defender turned over the ball to first-year Naomi Alkema. Alkema dashed toward the net with the game-tying goal on her foot, but was tracked down by the Niagara defender. 

Niagara outlasted the Royals in the season opener, dropping the Royals to 0-1. Redeemer's next match is Friday, September 12th, against the Mohawk Mountaineers. 

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