REDS Bow Out Of National Championship Tourney

(OSHAWA, ON) The UNB REDS surrendered two second half goals in a 2-1 loss to the host Ontario Tech Ridgebacks in their consolation semi-final, Friday, at the U SPORTS men's soccer championship tournament, in Oshawa.

"We're disappointed with coming here and not being able to pick up a win," said REDS' head coach Barry Morrison.

UNB took an early lead in the 25th minute when Ehab Moustafa scored on a well-placed cross, and the REDS carried that lead to the half-time break.

The Ridgebacks responded in the second half, gaining momentum with a goal from Erion Metaj in the 65th minute.

With the intensity ramping up, Tech's Kairo Coore scored the game-winner in the 85th minute, finishing from close range after a scramble in the box.

"With the wind at our back during the first half we were able to fully dominate the game and live the identity that we've had all year, and we were at our best on our front foot," said Coach Morrison. "In the second half, we had the wind in our faces. We continued to live the identity we've developed and played at a level that we're proud of. We conceded a couple of times on set pieces. The Tech team was very good with their finishing in the box and we weren't able to get the second goal in the second half."

The match also featured robust defensive performances from both squads, as both teams worked hard to fend off attacks.

Ontario Tech's goalkeeper, Kevon Grant, made four saves, while UNB's Mahmoud Moustafa recorded three.

"We feel we've put a lot of work into the last five weeks to finish off our season, get ourselves into playoffs and get a spot here, and I think that over our time we've shown that we're a team that's going to be able to compete at the national level and we're going to be back here in no time," said Coach Morrison.

The loss brings the REDS' season to an end while Ontario Tech advances to Saturday's fifth-place game, where they'll take on STFX.

RECAP AND PHOTOS BY: Ontario Tech Athletics/for U SPORTS