In its second exhibition action of the season, Villa Soccer Club earned a 0-0 draw with Comox United in a game played on Vancouver Island, Saturday, August 17.
Villa coach Chris McDonough said his club played a strong defensive game against the Comox opposition and eliminated some of the goals that were scored the previous week when Villa was defeated 3-2 at home by the same team.
“It was an improvement from the previous week and a good result considering it was an away game,” said McDonough. “We were missing a few of our core players so it was a positive result.”
McDonough said the team kicked off some of the rust from its first outing and the Powell River players were focused.
“Getting a clean sheet was good,” said McDonough. “It was a really good result.”
Villa had 16-year-old goalkeeper Scott McKenzie in net and he played outstandingly for the Powell River side, added the coach.
At the other end of the pitch, Villa was able to create some chances but the players were unable to finalize on any of the opportunities. While Comox had the majority of the play, Villa had a few scoring opportunities.
“From both teams it was a pretty tight defensive game,” said McDonough. “We definitely have to limit our goals against to give us an opportunity to pick up points. It was a good progression from the previous week.”
McDonough said the exhibition game was an opportunity to have a look at some new players, and others playing in new positions.
Villa does not have any more preseason action scheduled. The first regular season game takes place on Saturday, September 14, against Juan de Fuca. It will be the grand opening of the new Timberlane Park stands, which will make viewing Villa games more comfortable this year in inclement weather.
