(HALIFAX, NS) A goal by rookie midfielder Cierra Thomas(London, ON), in the 82nd minute of play, was enough to lift the visiting UNB Varsity Reds to victory 1-0 over the Dalhousie Tigers, Friday night.
The Varsity Reds dictated play in the opening five minutes, generating two quality chances.
Fullback Laura McNicholas(Doncaster, UK) had the first opportunity to open the scoring, on a shot from the left flank, but was stopped by Dalhousie goalie Sam Corcoran(Ottawa, ON). Less than a minute later, striker Lauren Cubbon(Saskatoon, SK) put a header on net, but was also stymied by Corcoran.
The Tigers fought back, midfielder Adelle Goodfellow(Halifax, NS) slipping behind UNB's back line and delivering a sliding kick from inside the box. Varsity Reds keeper Sami Jo Bell(East Dover, NS) stood firm though, to keep the game scoreless.
It appeared UNB had taken the lead with eight minutes left in the first half, as a strike from the right side by Cubbon slipped through the gloves of Corcoran. Defender Amanda Bowles(Burlington, ON) was in appropriate position however, and was able to clear the ball away just before it crossed the goal line.
Dalhousie controlled the pace of play for the majority of the second half, with nine shots on goal, however it was UNB that would notch the game's only marker.
Thomas placed an accurate corner into the box and was able to finish off her own play, with a low shot after the Tigers were unable to clear the ball.
Despite the result, Tigers head coach Cindy Tye was pleased with the way her team responded in the second half, after a slow start.
"It was probably the best game of football we've played,' said Tye. "We had it on the carpet and moved it around, we had some opportunities, so that's a lot of growth for us."
The Subway Players of the Game were midfielder Maya Venkataraman(Summerland, BC), for Dalhousie, and Cubbon, for UNB.
With the win, UNB improves to 2-2-1 while Dalhousie falls to 1-5-1.
The Varsity Reds next action is Saturday at 1:00PM, as they visit Saint Mary's. The Tigers will host Acadia on Sunday.
By: Mike Still, Dalhousie Athletics
Photo Credit: Jenn Sampson, Dalhousie Athletics