In their last match of the Vancouver Island Soccer League (VISL) season on Sunday, March 17, Powell River Villa mounted a second half comeback on the road to defeat Cowichan Axis.
After giving up a pair of goals in the first 45 minutes of play, Villa responded with an impressive offensive display after the break, scoring five times at Sherman Road Turf in Duncan.
“Down 2-0 at half we regrouped, came out and scored five unanswered goals for the comeback win,” said Villa manager Chris McDonough. “It was a great way to end the season, showing some resiliency and character.”
Marcus Cramb and Vasilios Bagiopoulos each scored twice for Powell River. Niko Cristante also scored for the visitors.
Villa earned three points for the 5-2 win, keeping pace with Victoria Highlanders, who also won their final game of the season last weekend. The two clubs finished with the same number of points (18) in VISL Division 1 standings, two behind Comox Valley United.
“In the league standings we finish tied in points with Highlanders but they take eighth place based on more league wins, which puts us in a relegation spot,” explained McDonough. “VISL will let us know in the next two weeks where we stand.”
Possible scenarios include Powell River being relegated to VISL Division 2; a challenge playoff game at home for the Division 1 spot; or if no Division 2 teams put forth a challenge, Villa will stay in Division 1 for the 2024/2025 season.
Vic West claimed top spot among the 10 teams in Division 1, finishing the 2023/2024 regular season undefeated with a record of 16 wins and two ties.
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