After a three-game losing streak, the senior soccer team found itself in a must-win game against Sutherland today. A loss would definitely eliminate them from the post-season while a win would give them a fighting chance of earning the final playoff berth.
In their way, stood a tough Sutherland squad who were also fighting for their playoff lives. The Cavs came out early with lots of energy. This was the first time all year that the team has been completely healthy and the starting 11 looked sharp as they pushed the ball around the field into space creating some early scoring chances.
The Cavs struck at the 14-minute mark when Sam put a beautiful cross into the box off a corner and Chris was there to thunder a header into the back of the net. Collingwood continued to push for the crucial second goal but the half ended 1-0.
Unfortunately, it was Sutherland that came out hungry in the second half. The Sabres were first to the ball consistently and this led to some poor defensive play that gifted Sutherland the tying goal. The Sabres pushed for winner and the Cavs were lucky that some golden opportunities were squandered by Sutherland.
With penalty shots looming, the Cavs' coaching staff looked for an energy substitution and they turned to Robert who immediately began to run miles up and down the field. A clearance kick from Collingwood landed just inside the Sutherland half and Robert was there to cause chaos, which allowed Rio to pounce on the loose ball. Rio took the space in front of him and then unleashed an absolutely sublime shot which rocketed into the back of the net.
By all watches on the Collingwood sideline the game was over, but the referee was enjoying the game so much he decided to play on. Sutherland had two free kicks in the waning moments but both were hammered away by the Cavs before the final whistle was finally sounded.
Collingwood now faces Bodwell on Thursday. Once again this will be a must-win game.
Rio's fantastic goal gave the Cavs a 2-1 win.
Sebastian has been playing terrific soccer all year. He made a number of fine overlapping runs today that caused the Sutherland defence all kinds of problems.
Aidan made some big saves today to keep the Sabres from taking the lead in the second half.