Last-minute goal propels Lakers to Consolation Final Victory over Spartans
| Final | 1 | 2 | T |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
0 | 0 | 0 |
|
|
0 | 1 | 1 |
HALIFAX, N.S. — A 90th minute goal by Tori Patterson lifted the Nipissing Lakers to a 1-0 victory over the Trinity Western Spartans in the consolation final of the 2024 BMO U SPORTS Women’s Soccer Championship, Saturday at Wickwire Field in Halifax.
The tightly contested match saw both teams generate numerous scoring opportunities, but it wasn’t until the final moments that the deadlock was broken. Patterson netted the lone goal of the game in stoppage time, capitalizing on a corner kick from teammate Emily Tierney to rule out extra time and secure the win.
Trinity Western's offense was relentless, firing multiple shots and forcing Nipissing goalkeeper Hayden Hanley to make several key saves. The Spartans came close to scoring early in the first half when Mansha Sidhu’s shot hit the post at the 2:27 mark. The Spartans kept the pressure up with attempts from Kylie Hendricks, Tilly James, and Erin Stewart, but Hanley stood firm, ending the match with several crucial stops to keep the scoreline clean.
On the other end, Nipissing tested Spartans goalkeeper Yasmine Pahal with consistent efforts from Taylor Schell, Cassidy Brooks, and Jessica Emmerton. Pahal held her ground with a string of saves, including a notable stop on Schell's header that ricocheted off the crossbar in the 19th minute.
Despite both teams’ efforts throughout the game, Patterson’s late goal proved decisive, handing Nipissing the hard-fought victory in the consolation final.
Players of the Game:
Nipissing: Emily Tierney
Trinity Western: Tilly James
Team Stats
| Game Statistics | Trinity Western | Nipissing |
|---|---|---|
| Shots (on goal) | 15 (7) | 8 (6) |
| Saves | 5 | 7 |
| Fouls | 10 | 13 |
| Corner Kicks | 6 | 4 |
| Offsides | 14 | 3 |