The junior field hockey team has had a terrific year. They won the ISA Championship, finished second at the UBC tournament and are now off to the North Shore Final. The Cavs exploded for four second-half goals and defeated West Van for the second time in a week. Here is Coach Shirkoff's report on his amazing team's latest victory:
For the second time in a week, the Junior Field Hockey Cavs faced the might West Van Highlanders in the semi-finals of the North Shore league in a do-or-die game.
The first half saw both teams trade chances. Olivia M, Devon L, Gabbi V and Liz M sent ball after ball through for the forwards to turn into high quality scoring chances. Olivia H. had three tremendous chances only to be stoned by the WV goalie. At the other end, Maisy H, McKinley K, Maddie A and Nicole created a formidable wall for the Highlanders to scale with Stella G making some key saves to keep the Highlanders off the scoresheet. Half time saw the score tied 0-0 although one parent was heard to observe that "We are ahead 0-0".
The second half opened with strong tactical play by the Lady Cavs as they strategically tested the West Vancouver defense with forays up the right hand side. 7 minutes into the first half Olivia H scored a beautiful tip-in goal on some outstanding work by Steph G and Seli E. Five minutes later, Olivia put the Lady Cavs ahead by 2. The Lady Cavs pressed their advantage, creating space in the midfield for the forwards to use. Seli E and Lilah S capitalized on the open space to score two more goals.
The Lady Cavs now face the Handsworth Royals for the fourth time this season, 3pm on Thursday at Ambleside E or Rutledge Field if it isn't flooded.
Olivia M on the attack against the Highlanders.