Capilano Advances

A strong team defensive performance led the #3 seed Capilano University Blues to a 1-0 victory over the #2 Douglas College Royals on Friday afternoon in Burnaby, giving CapU a berth in the PACWEST Championship final for the second season in a row.

Capilano’s goal came in the 57th minute on a free kick from just outside the 18-yard box. After forward Catrina Olstrom drew a foul, second-year midfielder Adrianna Babinski stepped up and drilled a hard, low strike that went off the foot of a Douglas player and ricocheted into the back of the net.

While Douglas controlled much of the play throughout the contest, Capilano had many of the best scoring chances. Royals keeper Alexa Gazzola made a great reaction save off a one-timer in the 20th minute, and early in the second half made a leaping save to deny another scoring chance.

Douglas dominated the shot count, firing 14 shots from all over the pitch, but their chances either missed the net or were controlled by CapU goalie Darian Roussy, who made five saves. The Blues defence read the ball well all game as well, stepping in and breaking up many Douglas attacks.

In the remaining minutes the Royals threw everything they could into the CapU 18-yard box, but the Blues held firm. Fourth-year defender Jessica Price was named Player of the Game due to her strong play on the back line.

Douglas forward Mikayla Hamilton unfortunately went down with an injury shortly before time expired and had to be carted off the field. We would like to extend positive thoughts and wish for a quick recovery.

Capilano now faces #1 seed Vancouver Island University in the final with PACWEST gold and a berth at CCAA Nationals on the line. Kick-off is at 12:00pm on Saturday at the Burnaby Lake Sports Complex West.​

Story: CJ Pentland