After last week's terrific performances against the Langara Falcons, the Royals were looking for a repeat performance against tougher opponents. They faced off against the Quest Kermodes and the VIU Mariners in the second last week of the PACWEST soccer action.
The Kermodes match had the most significance for the Royals. A win would help them secure the third seed in the PACWEST Championships. A drab start to the match saw both sides take a 0-0 draw into the half. The Royals found the breaking goal off a foul from the Kermodes inside the box. Edris Najm would bury the ensuing penalty kick in the 52nd minute to give the Royals the lead.
They would double their lead 30 minutes later. Tetsuya Yoshinaga buried a screamer from the 18 yard line. The second goal would be the game winner as the Royals guided their 2-0 win to a third place finish in the PACWEST.
Despite the result, the Royals season is not over yet. They played the VIU Mariners the day after. A quick goal from Victor Blasco from the penalty mark put the Royals behind. The two teams clashed heavily in the midfield, trading possession back and forth throughout the game.
However, the Royals could only keep up for so long. The straw that broke the camel's back came off a 75th minute goal off from Stefan Cukovic. Jordan Degraaf added another one to make the lead 3-0, and that was all she wrote. A 3-0 loss is a tough result for the team, despite their great form of late.
The week results put the Royals at 4-4-2, and 14 points. The Royals have secured third place in the PACWEST and regardless of results next week will maintain that. However, they do face off against the Capilano Blues which could very well be their playoff opponents. You can catch that game on Saturday on Cunnings Field at 3:30 pm. It'll be the last home game the Royals have this year. Come out and support your Royals!