Rams headed back to OUA Final Four after defeating Ridgebacks

TORONTO – The No. 8 nationally ranked Ryerson Rams men's soccer team is headed back to the OUA Final Four after defeating the UOIT Ridgebacks 2-0 in the OUA quarter-final on Sunday afternoon.

Both goals came in the first half of play, starting with Martin Dabrowski (Barrie, Ont.) in the 16th minute. Dabrowski capitalized on a poor UOIT clearance and he rifled a shot into the bottom right corner.

Ryerson had several other first half chances that didn't find the back of the net until extra time when Misel Klisara (Zenica, Bosnia) floated a corner kick into the box that found the head of Nick Lambis (Pickering, Ont.). His ball bounced down off the turf and Luka Lee (Toronto) got the final touch to push the ball over the line and give Ryerson a 2-0 lead heading into halftime.

Ryerson played shut down defence in the second half of the match, not allowing the Ridgebacks an attempt at goal despite their need to press for offence.

"Last time we played these guys we lost 3-0," said defender Josh Kohn (Richmond Hill, Ont.) following the match. "The last week all we've been doing is defensive work; defensive shape is all we've been focusing on and we made sure that today was on point for that."

Lambis had a strong game through the middle and he spoke after the game about putting together another long playoff run.

"After last year we've been there now so winning the quarter-final is something we expect to do now. Now it's taking the next step and getting to nationals and going further than we did last year."

Every player that dressed for the Rams on Sunday saw game action, something that associate coach Fil Prostran feels is important going forward.

"They need to feel what this environment is like. Being on the bench and then playing next year is not enough until you're out on the field. Everyone feels involved when everyone plays and everyone plays an important role on this team. I hope everyone felt important and a part of it."

The OUA Final Four will be held in Hamilton at Tim Hortons Field next weekend. The semifinal will take place on Saturday, November 1. Ryerson's opponent and game time are yet to be determined. Stay tuned to ryersonrams.ca for all playoff information.

Source: Ryerson Rams