By Davie Wong

Anyone thinking that the Royals vs. Capilano game was going to be boring were treated to quite the site on Saturday. The Royals got off on the right foot, controlling the game and dictating the pace right from kickoff. They were rewarded for their efforts with a goal from Sam Kell, her third of season, at the 11th minute mark. Martina Pettenon had the assist on the goal, setting up the shot with a slick pass.

    But the Blues would get one back shortly after, scoring off a set piece breakdown. Blues midfielder Dominika Paige would be the one to put it away for the Blues, tying the game in the 18th minute. Three minutes later, the Blues would score again. Adrianna Babinski shot ended up in the net and just like that the Blues were ahead.

    With the pace of the game moving so fast, the Royals took some time to slow the game down. They were able to stem the Blues tide and hold the score going into halftime. Refresh and refocused from the break, the Royals came back determined to get a goal. From how they played, it looked like they deserved a couple.

    However, Blues keeper Nikki Gerbrandt was on point with her saves and the Royals just couldn't beat her a second time. Their best chance came off a shot from Martina Pettenon, but it just wasn't meant to be. The Blues would hold on past the Royals second half shooting gallery to win 2-1 on the day.

    The loss moves the Royals record to 1-1-1. They currently sit third in PACWEST with 4 points, behind the tied Capilano and VIU. They'll have a chance to move topside again next week when they travel to Squamish to take on the Quest Kermodes, and come home Sunday to face the VIU Mariners. You can catch Sunday's game against VIU at Cunnings Park. Kickoff is slated for 12PM. Come out and support your Royals!