Panthers denied first win, as Moncton shuts out UPEI 2-0
With time running out on the season, every win matters.
By Thomas Becker
With time running out on the season, every win matters.
The UPEI Panthers and Université de Moncton Aigles Bleus both came into the game on the fringes of a playoff spot knowing the significance of the contest.
Unfortunately for the Panthers (0-5-2), they'll continue to look for their first win of the season, as the Aigles Bleus (2-2-3) earned a tough 2-0 road win.
Moncton now finds themselves in a playoff position and is feeling good right now with the stretch run ahead of them.
"This is a very important win for us," said goalkeeper Christian Masimengo. "All the points count this time of year, and we can't leave any on the table. We have to take it all."
The visitors wasted little time and scored just three minutes into the game. On a corner kick from Gabriel Lima (Toronto, ON), Dave Guichard (Remire-Monjoly, Guyane) got a head on the ball before Pascal Sonier (North Tetagouche, NB) volleyed it past the UPEI keeper for the game's opening goal.
"We get that early goal in and now we're feeling comfortable, and the other team is running from behind," Masimengo said of the significance of that first goal and how it set the tone for the rest of the game.
The Aigles Bleus struck again on another set piece in the 32nd minute. Mohamed Lamine Touré (Moncton, NB) lined up a free kick from 25 yards out and beat Isaac Wolters (Springvale, PE), who couldn't contain the hot shot in front of him.
From there, Moncton's defence held the Panthers down, as they struggled to generate scoring opportunities, which has plagued the team all season.
UPEI will look for their first win Sunday afternoon when they host the Cape Breton Capers, while the Aigles Bleus return home to take on the Dalhousie Tigers.
Photo Credit: Mike Needham
