The Cougars opened strongly, taking the game to Stevenson with almost all the play in the Stevenson half for the first 8 minutes, including 2 corner kicks. Quick as a flash though, Stevenson penetrated in the 9th minute forcing a key save from Sarah Griffith. Back and forth for 3 more minutes with a shot from Jackie, then another from Stevenson and a reply from Kate! In the 15th minute The Cougars were at the Stevenson net with attempts from Jackie and April!

The game transitioned to a midfield battle for most the first half. Great speed in the Stevenson defense disrupted the Cougar attacks, and excellent defensive shape from the Cougars held the Stevenson offence at bay. Missing Laura, Jess had moved to her center position with Ashley anchoring the right. Seaira battled on the left against both the Stevenson offense as well as a head cold. In the second half, Eliza took over her spot, a position she was not used to, but really stepped up to the plate! This back four had not worked together as a unit before, but they stuck to the principles of play and performed admirably!

In the last minutes of the first half, Kate fed a perfect ball to a well positioned Daniela, who was clear to go to goal! Despite being well onside, and acknowledged by the center referee, he blew his whistle for offside on the assistant’s flag! So close to being 2-0!

Stevenson charged from the gate in the second half, getting long shots off in the 42nd and 43rd minute. The Cougar midfield pressure was sufficient to deny a clean strike. The Cougars quickly rallied with April firing off a shot in the 44th minute. A poor goalkick from Stevenson saw the Cougars pouncing on the opportunity, Kate fed the ball to Daniela, who despite the strength of the Stevenson backs, was able to keep possession and drive the ball into the back of the net!

Again Stevenson put the pressure on the Cougar goal, taking an edge in the possession. In the 49th minute the ball was loose in the Cougars penalty area needing little more than a toe-poke to get past Sarah, but Stevenson was denied. The Cougars refocused and Kate got off shots in the 50th, 57th and 65th minutes. Daniela too in the 60th and 65th minute! Back Stevenson came, firing off some long balls partly out of frustration, before winning a free kick in the 72nd minute 25 yards in front of the Cougars net! The wall was set immediately, the fans all held their breath, the ball struck strongly, but flying wide to the relief of the Cougars!

The Cougars rallied yet again! With five minutes left, Kate had the ball inside the Stevenson penalty area, nailed the shot only to have it denied by the incredible speed on the Stevenson defender! Stevenson seemed unable to come back, and the Cougars were happy to come away with the 1 – 0 victory.