The Vancouver Metro Soccer League (VMSL) season is officially over for Squamish FC after the local squad lost 2-1 to the LMU Hurricanes at Confederation Turf in North Vancouver on Saturday (March 5).
"It was a disappointing end to a disappointing season," said Squamish FC's Chris Rayner.
The Hurricanes opened the scoring early on a play that many Squamish players thought looked suspiciously offside, fooling Squamish goalie Jeremy Galley through the five hole. Squamish fought back, taking control of the first half by firing more than 10 shots toward the Hurricanes' goal but failing to score.
It was more of the same in the second half, as LMU scored early only to see Squamish settle down and begin to control the action. Rayner scored a late goal after a solo run, but it wasn't enough as the Hurricanes held on for a 2-1 victory.
It was an abrupt end to a season that started strongly for Squamish FC. The team rattled off five straight wins to start the season and in November was in first place in its division with a record of eight wins and two losses. However, Squamish stumbled down the stretch, finishing with a record of 10 wins, seven losses and one tie and placing third in its division.
The unusually high amount of snow affected the team, as several home games had to be re-scheduled and Rayner also said the team struggled with a lack of dedication by some players.
"After a great start to the season, Squamish FC's wheels fell off due to a lack of commitment from a number of players," Rayner said. "We will be looking to rebuild the teamwith younger, keener players for the next season."
