Powell River Villa Soccer Club improved its early season record to 3-0 with a 1-0 victory over Bays United in Victoria on Saturday, September 29.
The team’s third straight one-goal win in Vancouver Island Soccer League play followed the same pattern as games one and two: a late second half goal decided the outcome and earned Villa the maximum three points.
"We seem to be finding that extra gear at the end of games and finding ways to win,” said coach Chris McDonough. "It was another exciting finish for us."
After an even first 45 minutes of play, Villa was the better team in the second half, according to the coach.
“We definitely had more energy at the end of the game,” he said. “They were probably playing for a tie and we really went for that win. It was a great performance.”
After pressing throughout the second half and creating three breakaways, all saved by Victoria’s goalkeeper, a turnover at midfield during injury time led to the game’s only goal.
“Jake Kenmuir managed to get the ball, beat a couple of guys and get into the 18-yard box,” said McDonough. “He just ripped one into the far corner and got the winner. It was a nice goal and a great result for us.”
McDonough credited his defenders for their steady play and commitment to stay organized defensively and not give up goals.
“The defence played really well; Jarek Long and Brandon Rairie were really steady back there,” he said. “At the beginning we really focused on our defensive shape, just keeping our backend nice and tidy; it gives us opportunities to win these games.”
Villa goalkeeper Matt Liknes earned his third shutout in a row.
Fitness became a factor for the second straight week with training sessions run by player and physiotherapist Greg Smith paying off for the visitors.
“We pressed a lot at the end of the game; as it wore on we saw more opportunities to push ahead and go for the win,” said McDonough. “Greg joined our club at the end of last year and has really focused on physio and fitness, and trying to improve on injury prevention and overall fitness. We also have a committed group of guys who are gelling together and that is playing a big part in it as well.”
Smith also played well in an attacking midfield role, said the coach, creating chances and good scoring opportunities for his teammates.
Villa will look for its fourth straight win on Saturday, October 6, at Timberlane Park. Game time is 1:30 pm. Nanaimo United provides the opposition.
“It is a big home game and Thanksgiving weekend so we should get a good crowd out,” said McDonough. “We are excited to keep going on this run.”
With no other undefeated teams in VISL Division 2, Villa sits atop the table with nine points, two points clear of Victoria Highlanders and Saanich Fusion Bandits.
