Playing Saanich Fusion is always a tough match for the Riptide U15 boys soccer team. Head coach Bruce Mitchell said Sunday’s (Sept. 28) match “was high intensity soccer and our team performed fantastically. A well-deserved 2-0 victory based on some stellar defence along with timely and clinical finishing.
"There weren't a lot of chances either way but when we had our chances we finished superbly. While our goals were scored by Jay and Nicholas it was the hard work and pressure of our defenders and midfielders that set the stage for success.”
The Riptide’s first goal came midway through the first half. Charlie Purcell fed a beautiful pass to Jay Grenier, who found himself some room and beat the Saanich keeper with a solid shot. Riptide held their own through the remainder of the game, while Saanich players seemed to become increasingly frustrated with their inability to get past the Riptide’s excellent defence. Shohei Iwamoto, John Samuels, Dawson Kipp, Ethan Wong, Brook Gronemeyer, Darren Hall, Cullen Buholzer and Navarre White were unshakeable defensively.
The goal that ultimately sealed the win came with a beautiful pass from Tanner Kempe on the left wing, when he launched a pinpoint cross to a rushing Nicholas Mitchell, who flicked it into the Saanich net with a beautiful header.
This win gives Riptide keepers Jared Perras and Gary Thiara their third shutout in as many games. At this point, the team is in second place in their division, with a record of three wins and one loss.
The Riptide’s next game is Sunday, Oct. 5 against Cowichan with kick-off 12 p.m. at Comox Valley Turf.
– Riptide U15 Boys