ANCASTER, ON - The Redeemer Royals welcomed cross-town rival and nationally ranked No. 6 Mohawk Mountaineers to David Mantel Field Saturday afternoon.
Before the match, the Royals had the opportunity to celebrate two graduating senior athletes for senior night.
Joelle Mitton and
Alexis Van Aken were recognized prior ot the match for their contributions to the Royals women's soccer program.
Saturday's match did not disappoint. The nationally ranked Mountaineers quickly set the tone, commanding the pace of play. Despite the Mountaineers controlling possession, Redeemer did an excellent job defending and limiting the Mountaineers opportunities.
Through the first forty-five minutes, neither team could find the back of the net. Mohawk had 19 opportunities toward goal, but only 9 of them required the attention of Royals goalkeeper Sarah DeJong, who was flawless in the first 45 minutes.
Second-half action progressed, and Mohawk continued to fire on goal. Eventually, Mohawk found their chance and took a 1-0 lead in the 58th minute.
The Royals did not allow the Mohawk goal to discourage them. Three minutes after the go-ahead goal, Redeemer answered off a corner kick. Senior athlete
Alexis Van Aken found the back of the net for the Royals. This was the first goal that the Mohawk keeper had allowed all season.
Redeemer continued to push the Mountaineers late in the match. However, in the 84th minute, Mohawk struck again to take a 2-1 lead late in the match.
The match concluded 2-1 for the Mountaineers.
Despite the loss, Redeemer showed they have what it takes to play with some of the nation's best. Redeemer is back in action Thursday, October 15th, when they face the Conestoga Condors.
