The Kermodes Win Bronze

The Quest Kermodes unseated the reigning PACWEST men’s soccer bronze medalists to capture a medal of their own on Saturday afternoon. The number four seed Kermodes defeated the second seeded VIU Mariners 6-5 in penalty kicks en route to the bronze.

After falling by a score of 5-2 to Capilano in the semi-final, the Kermodes picked themselves up and delivered a solid defensive outing. Goalkeeper Sam MacDonald was recognized for his stellar performance, earning player of the game honors.

Both teams had chances on goal in the first half, but good defense and solid goalkeepers at both ends kept the game nil-nil through the first half.

The trend from the first half carried on, as neither team could solve the opposing keeper through 90 minutes. For the second straight game, the Mariners would need to go to PK’s to decide a winner.

After failing to find the back of the net in regulation, both teams got some offense going in penalties. The Mariners had the edge early, burying their first three shots. The Kermodes answered with their first two, but were denied on the third attempt.

With every kick counting, the Mariners got two more goals from Stephen Ewashko and Andres Algarin. The Kermodes responded to both goals, with Yassin Nayel and Nick Park each finding a way to beat the keeper.

The Marniers had a 5-4 lead after five shooters, but failed to convert their sixth attempt.
Kermodes’ forward Jeremy Monn buried his shot, keeping his team alive, and knotting it up at 5.

With the season on the line, the Mariners couldn’t get it past Sam MacDonald and Benedikt Dressen sealed the deal with the winning goal.

With the victory, the Kermodes captured just their second provincial medal in men’s soccer; they also won bronze in 2014. The Mariners failed to medal for the first time since 2012.

Photo courtesy of Vancouver Sports Pictures