On Saturday, October 14, at Finlayson Park in Victoria, Powell River Villa once again had to come from behind to earn another 2-2 draw, this time versus Westcastle International Academy.
Villa conceded in the 30th minute when a Westcastle forward was able to beat keeper Scott McKenzie to a through ball, putting the home side up 1-0. Westcastle doubled the lead to 2-0 at the 33-minute mark when Villa defender James Timothy, inside his own 18-yard box, fell on the ball, which grazed his hand. This resulted in a penalty kick, which was finished off by a Westcastle forward.
Villa responded moments later when a 38th minute strike from midfielder Niko Cristante cut the deficit in half, making the score 2-1.
Villa added the tying goal in the 55th minute after a Westcastle player handled the ball in their 18-yard box, resulting in another penalty kick. Timothy stepped up to take the penalty and calmly hit the ball into the low right corner.
In the 75th minute, midfielder Jacob Duyvesteyn was sent off for a second caution, forcing Villa to play with 10 men. Then, in the 90th minute, team captain Richard Murphy received a straight red card for a verbal altercation with the Westcastle bench.
Down to nine men and with injury time still left to play, Villa absorbed Westcastle’s offensive pressure and was able to hold on to the tie and earn a valuable point on the road.
Villa is in eighth place in Division 1 standings, three points ahead of Westcastle and one behind Comox Valley.
Powell River tied Gorge FC, also 2-2, at home last weekend.
Villa’s next Vancouver Island Soccer League (VISL) action is at home on Saturday, October 21, versus Cowichan Axis FC. Kickoff is scheduled for 1:30 pm at Timberlane Park.
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