Updated November 2, 2015
Entering the playoffs for the first time in four years, the Seawolves had their hands full with the experienced Hurricanes in the semi-final match in Halifax on Saturday.
“(the Seawolves) went up against an experienced Holland college team, that has been going to nationals or has been in contention for nationals for many years” says Dave Munro, director of athletics at UNB Saint John.
The chilly 10am start did not seem to affect the Seawolves, who came out strong, controlling the first part of the half, getting two chances off an early attack.
“I thought Saint John really took it to us in the first 20 minutes, really had control of the play”
“It was a battle out there all day, it was a good game.” says Kris Mckinnon, head coach for the Hurricanes.
Despite coming out strong, Tessa Fudge of the Hurricanes managed to score in the 19th minute, sending Saint John into the half, down 1 – 0.
In the second, Holland College’s Blair Roberts managed to get to the net and score after a messy scramble off a corner at the 60 minute mark.
“the Holland College girls just got stronger and stronger as the game went along” says Munro.
A sprawling save in the 70th minute from the Seawolves keeper Sadie Dunnet wasn’t enough to keep Saint John in the game and the Women were unable to come back from the 2-0 deficit.
“I thought we played soccer well, obviously we are disappointed with the game today, we felt good about going in against Holland College, we have played well against them all year.” says Rob Mather, head coach for the Seawolves.
“We played well as a unit, we got caught on a few mistakes here and there but I was happy with (our) effort. We worked a lot at being consistent as a unit and I think we did that today”
“I think we are happy with the season, first and foremost our goal was to get back into the playoffs, which we accomplished” continues Mather.
While disappointed the team generally was in good spirits.
“As a team we all did our best, and thats all we can do.” added Annick McManus midfielder for the Seawolves
“I’m going to miss playing with these girls, it’s going to be hard not coming back.”
Says 4th year nuclear medicine student who expects to graduate this year.
With only two starters finishing their studies, the Seawolves are expected to improve on their performance next year as they grow as a team.
“You can’t build a soccer team in two months, obviously it takes time.” says Munro
“Holland has some players who have been playing together for two or three years now and it showed out there,”
“having really good goalkeepers, Sadie and Marina, bodes well for the team in the future” Munro continues.
The final score of the semi-final was 2-0 for Holland College, who lost in the final to Mount Saint Vincent University on Sunday 1-0.
MSVU will go on to the National Championship at Fleming College in Peterborough Ontario, taking place November 10-14.
