Powell River United over 35 FC stepped onto the pitch Sunday looking for a win against Campbell River. When they last met, Campbell River handed United its first loss of the year with a 5-0 tromping during the season opener. The bad taste from that loss had United chomping at the bit to play this game and earn some redemption on its home turf.
The game started with United coming out strong and playing solid team defence. The players kept good possession of the ball resulting in a few good chances on net. United maintained its composure and continued to move the ball well and put pressure on the visiting team goalkeeper.
The home team opened the scoring when a long throw by centre back Derek Veenhof sailed into the box. A visiting defenceman had his clearing attempt blocked and the ball was put into the back of the net by a charging Rino Parise. United seemed to be lifted by the goal and continued to move the ball well and keep possession but was unable to find the net again. The half ended 1-0 for the home team.
United came out to start the second half with the same intensity as in the first and it paid off when player and coach Tony Leach made a nice run down the wing and crossed a ball onto the head of a flying Lee Illing and into the net. United was up 2-0 and playing well.
The hard work paid off when a scramble ensued off a Veenhof long throw and again Parise helped out by keeping the ball in play. This allowed Neil Bastock to bury the ball into the back of the net giving United a 3-0 lead. United was unlucky not to go up 4-0 when Illing broke free on a breakaway but was unable to find the net.
Campbell River was able to get on the scoreboard when a clearing attempt by a United player spun high and into the box allowing the visiting team to beat goalie Rick Bombardir. The game ended with United getting three points with a 3-1 win.
