Weather warnings and uncertain ferry schedules that resulted from last weekend’s series of storms were partly to blame for Powell River Villa losing its third game of the Vancouver Island Soccer League (VISL) season, according to head coach Mario Paul. The club dropped a 4-1 decision to Vic West FC in Victoria on Saturday, October 15.
“Conditions were less than ideal for this trip to Victoria,” said Paul. “We were unsure the trip would go ahead at all. A stressful drive down the Island Highway gave us very little time to prepare before the game and we came out flat.”
However, the real reason for the loss, said Paul, is the team not having the ability to play the way it needs to for the full 90 minutes.
According to Paul, uncharacteristic mistakes by Villa’s defence gave Vic West the early advantage.
“Within 15 minutes, it was 3-0,” said Paul, adding that the goals were preventable. “Our guys refused to back down, battled to regain their composure and finished the half in control of the game.”
The second half was much better for Villa, said Paul. Both teams scored one goal, with Kye Taylor putting the ball into the net for Villa.
“Slow starts seem to be plaguing us so far,” said Paul.
After five games, the loss puts Villa’s record at one win, three losses and one tie for four points and seventh spot in the competitive Division 2 of the VISL. Villa’s goal differential is minus three, with eight goals against and five goals on the plus side.
“The results are certainly not reflective of the effort from my guys,” said Paul. “They play hard and train hard. I need to shoulder the responsibility here, as the coach, and find a way for us to achieve the results we need to be successful. There are still lots of games left to get the job done.”
Villa hosts Lakehill United at 1:30 pm on Sunday, October 23, at Timberlane Park.
