The Mulgrave Titans boys soccer team made history on Wednesday by winning their first ever 2A provincial championship in a nail-biting shootout against the Windsor Wolves. The all-North Shore final was a showcase of skill, passion and drama, as both teams fought hard to claim the coveted trophy.
A close contest
The game started with a fast pace, as both teams tried to gain an early advantage. The Titans had more possession and created some chances, but the Wolves defended well and looked dangerous on the counterattack. The first half ended goalless, with neither team able to break the deadlock.
The second half was more open, as both teams pushed for a goal. The Titans finally broke through in the 55th minute, when Tate Pettman scored with a powerful header from a corner kick. The Wolves responded quickly, and equalized in the 62nd minute, when Evan Smith slotted home a rebound from a free kick. The game became more tense, as both teams searched for a winner. The Titans had a golden opportunity in the 75th minute, when Lucas Lee was fouled in the penalty area, but his spot kick was saved by the Wolves goalkeeper. The Wolves also had a chance in the 85th minute, when Ryan Park hit the crossbar with a long-range shot. The game ended 1-1 after 90 minutes, and went to extra time.
A dramatic finish
The extra time was a test of stamina and nerves, as both teams battled fatigue and pressure. The Titans had more chances, but the Wolves held on and defended bravely. The game remained tied after 120 minutes, and went to a penalty shootout.
The shootout was a roller coaster of emotions, as both teams missed and scored alternately. The Titans had the edge, as their goalkeeper Tate Pettman made two crucial saves, while the Wolves missed one of their shots. The Titans had the chance to win the game, when Lucas Lee stepped up to take the fifth and final penalty. He made no mistake, and sent the ball into the bottom corner, sparking wild celebrations among the Titans players, coaches and fans. The Wolves were heartbroken, but applauded their opponents for their victory.
A historic achievement
The Titans became the first team from Mulgrave School to win a provincial soccer title, and the first team from the North Shore to win the 2A boys championship. They also completed an impressive season, with a record of 14-2-3, and a league title. The Titans coach Claude Leduc praised his team for their performance and character.
“I’m so proud of these boys. They worked hard, they played with passion, and they showed great resilience and composure. They deserve this title, and they made history for our school and our community,” he said.
The Titans captain Tate Pettman, who was named the tournament MVP, also expressed his joy and gratitude.
“This is the best feeling ever. We’ve been dreaming of this moment since we started playing soccer. We have a great team, and a great coach, and we couldn’t have done it without them. We also want to thank our fans, our families, and our school for their support. This is for them,” he said.
The Wolves coach Kevin Smith congratulated the Titans for their win, and commended his team for their effort and spirit.
“They are a very good team, and they deserved to win. They played well, and they were clinical in the shootout. We played well too, and we gave them a tough fight. We are disappointed, but we are also proud of ourselves. We had a great season, and we reached the final for the first time. We have nothing to be ashamed of,” he said.
The Wolves captain Evan Smith, who scored the equalizer for his team, also praised the Titans, and thanked his teammates and supporters.
“They are a great team, and they showed it today. They were better than us in the shootout, and we have to accept that. We also played our hearts out, and we gave everything we had. We are sad, but we are also happy for what we achieved. We have a great team, and a great coach, and we are grateful for them. We also appreciate our fans, our families, and our school for their support. They were amazing,” he said.
A memorable final
The final was a fitting end to a thrilling tournament, which featured 16 teams from across the province. The tournament was hosted by the North Shore Secondary Schools Athletic Association, and took place at the Ambleside Park and Rutledge Field. The tournament organizers thanked all the teams, officials, volunteers, sponsors and spectators for their participation and contribution.
The final was also a showcase of the talent and potential of the 2A boys soccer in the province, which has grown in popularity and quality over the years. The final was attended by scouts and coaches from various clubs and colleges, who were impressed by the level and diversity of the players.
The final was also a celebration of the spirit and passion of soccer, which brought together players, coaches, fans and communities from different backgrounds and regions. The final was a display of sportsmanship, respect and friendship, as both teams congratulated and hugged each other after the game.
The final was a memorable event, and a historic moment, for the Mulgrave Titans, who clinched their first ever 2A boys provincial soccer title, and made their mark in the soccer history of the province.
