TORONTO, Ont. – The UOIT Ridgebacks women's soccer team dropped a 2-1 contest versus the Toronto Varsity Blues on Sunday afternoon at Varsity Stadium in Toronto.
Making the transition to forward from defence in her second season with the Ridgebacks, 2017 OUA east second team all-star
Alexis Kirton (Pickering, Ont.) opened the scoring in the 15th minute. Chasing down a long ball from the Ridgebacks midfield, Kirton took advantage of a misplay from Varsity Blues keeper Vanna Staggolis, utilizing a soft chip shot to send it over the outstretched arms of the Toronto keeper to hand UOIT the early 1-0 lead. The goal was the first career OUA marker for Kirton.
Back-and-forth action continued until late in the opening frame when U of T stepped up their pressure. Earning a corner in the 41st minute, Varsity Blues forward Daniella Cipriano sent a cross through a crowd of UOIT defenders where second-year midfielder Kristin Parkes deposited the loose ball to even the score 1-1 right before the break.
The Ridgebacks bounced back from the late first half goal, immediately shifting pressure back to Toronto's half. Within the first five minutes of action, UOIT generated several chances including a long bending shot from halftime substitution
Michele Dell'Aquila (Vaughan, Ont.) which was knocked just over the bar by the Staggolis.
In a similar fashion to the first half however, U of T picked up the pace down the stretch and were able to take advantage in the final 10 minutes. Fourth-year striker Natasha Klasios sent a through ball to fellow veteran Chelsea Cheung who notched the game-winner in the 81st minute.
Ridgebacks keeper
Olivia Tierney (King City, Ont.) finished the afternoon with nine saves, while her Toronto counterpart Staggolis tallied seven.
UOIT will look to rebound at home when they play for the first time on the newly-turfed Vaso's Field next Saturday, Sept. 1. Kick off is scheduled for 1 p.m. versus the visiting Carleton Ravens.
Overall Record: 1-2-0 (W-L-D)
Conference Record: 0-2-0
Next match: Saturday, Sept. 1 vs. Carleton Ravens (1 p.m. – Vaso's Field)
