The Douglas Royals Women's Soccer team will take on the pitch for the very first time since the 2019-20 season this weekend with a season opener visiting the Langara Falcons on Saturday (1pm) and topping off the weekend with a home opener against the Capilano Blues (12pm) on Cunnings Field this Sunday.
This year, the Royals boast a well-rounded roster of both young talent and solid experience who have been practicing hard continuously over the past 14 months. After a heartbreaking 4-3 loss in penalty kicks to the Capilano Blues in the 2019 PACWEST semi-finals, the team is rejuvenated and prepared to start the 2021-22 season on a positive note.
Many returning players will bring a prominent impact in each game within all aspects of the field, adding important depth and competitive edge for the Royals.
The Backline:
Third-year defender Hannah dela Cruz will be a main piece of the Royals' defense, having received a PACWEST All-Star Nomination in 2019-20. The Royals will also look strong in net with goalkeeper Elisha Machado coming off a positive rookie season that saw her achieving 1 shutout in 5 games started.
The Midfield:
Midfielder Kya Cleto is predicted to step up and make a significant contribution on the pitch as a reliable link between the Royals' offensive and defensive lines.
Christine Singh joins her on the midfield as a notable rookie hoping to showcase her skills and obtain experience on the pitch to help the Royals contend for a PACWEST title this season.
The Front Line:
Returning forwards such as fourth-year veteran Martina Pettenon and second-year Alicia Skirzyk will bring a competitive game for the Royals this season as key pieces of their offense alongside Taylor Spong, the 2019-20 Co-Rookie of the Year. Spong acquired an impressive 8 points in her first season with the Royals.
Head Coach Chris Laxton has expressed excitement to get the season going after a missed year of play due to COVID-19.
"We're excited to take the field and compete again. You take things for granted every second away, and we're going to make the most of it and enjoy our time competing and looking forward to finally putting everything we've put into practice for the last [almost] 2 years onto the pitch and leaving it there."
Once again, the Royals will open the season at Langara this Saturday September 18th at 1pm, and welcome Capilano at their home opener on Cunnings Field Sunday the 19th at 12pm.
