The Under 18 Girls Squamish Scorpions stung yet another victim in a 7-1 victory, winning the semi-finals in the Coast Classic Cup on Sunday (March 11).
Coach Paul Fletcher summed up his team's performance perfectly: "Great," he said with a smile.
The girls knew they were in the big time when assistant referees showed up, and when authorities attempted to enforce a league rule banning parents from hanging out with players on the sidelines - a rule the Richmond parents promptly ignored.
With rain pouring for the duration of the games, the girls took a moment adjusting to all the puddles, but quickly found their feet. The Scorpions wouldn't let a minor obstacle like mud keep them from taking an early two-goal lead.
The first goal came on a cross, falling at the feet of Jaclyn McClements who tapped it in. The second goal came from a shot by Lindsey Fletcher from inside the 18-yard box. Lindsey, daughter of coach Fletcher, scored twice more to make a hat trick before the half.Tina Sangha was noteworthy, scoring two points and Aislinn Mekel was the seventh goal scorer.
Lisa Halliwell kicked in the lone goal for Richmond to make it a 6-1 score at about 10 minutes to halftime. It was one of Richmond's few scoring chances, although Scorpions keeper, Shelby Yaky, did have to make a sliding save late in the game.
"It was a balanced effort," said Fletcher. "We had really good passing. A lot of the goals came off of four or five passes."
Parents said they were relieved the game wasn't as nail-biting as the previous weekend's quarter-finals, which saw the Scorpions gain a 2-1 win over the Abbotsford Storm.Fletcher said he's giving his players a rest next week during spring break. Several players are taking advantage by going on a well-earned vacation.
Hopefully a bit of sun and some rest will prepare them for the finals of the tournament, which has teams predominantly from across the Lower Mainland compete, said Fletcher.
During the final - scheduled for Saturday, March 31, in Richmond - the Scorpions will face either Ladner or Vancouver Island, who have yet compete in their league semi-final.
Fletcher predicts the finals will be a tough match - whoever they play.
