STORY BY MICHAEL MELRO
The first semi-final of the men’s soccer nationals was a cagey back and forth game. Both Algonquin (1-1 CCAA) and VIU (2-0 CCAA) had periods of dominance in the game but ultimately ended in a penalty shootout with VIU winning the game 3-2 (4-3).
The No. 5 team in the nation, the VIU Mariners, dominated the early portion of the match, shutting down the Algonquin Thunder speed and possession game with tight defence in the middle of the park, forcing many turnovers.
No. 17, Jamie Taylor, scored an early goal for the Mariners to put them ahead 1-0, giving his team an early confidence boost. After the goal VIU was able to implement their style of play, really bossing most of the first half. A few minutes later No. 10 Victor Blasco of the VIU Mariners took control of the ball and dribbled his way to the by line drawing two defenders and put in a low cross to his teammate No. 9 Renan Rebelatto who confidently slotted the ball home.
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Algonquin stole the momentum just before half when No. 27 Kishoyian Kipusi sent in a beautiful shot from a free kick on target. The Mariner goalkeeper saved the initial shot only to have the rebound tucked home by No. 16 Isaac Johnson.
The second half was a rough affair with both teams trying to assert their dominance. It became a back and forth open soccer game, leading to many breakout opportunities for both teams. Algonquin tied the game late in the 84th minute with a mesmerizing drive from the Thunder talisman, Kipusi.
The game ended going to penalty kicks with VIU winning. They converted four out of their five spot kicks with Algonquin falling one short. VIU now moves on to the championship game Saturday, Nov. 8 at 1 p.m. Algonquin moves to the bronze medal bracket playing Friday, Nov. 7 at 10 a.m.