The ECFC Women (6-5-1) fought hard but were unable to come out on top against the League 1 Ontario leaders FC London (10-1-1) on Saturday afternoon. ECFC and FC London battled the wind in a scoreless first half that saw ECFC control possession and create many positive chances. Both goalkeepers came up with key saves to keep the game scoreless through the first 45 minutes.
The tie was broken in the 84th minute when FC London’s leading scorer Julia Benati scored on a long-distance shot, her 8th tally of the season.
“We were excited for this game, playing against a good opponent coming in, we had a chance to show that we can compete with the best in this league, and I thought we did,” said head coach Randy Ribeiro. “I thought we were unfortunate to concede a goal late, but sometimes the ball does not bounce your way.”
Saturday’s match against FC London completed a string of 3 matches in 7 days for ECFC, and although they were only able to accrue 1 point in the standings, Coach Ribeiro liked a lot of what his club showed in their matchups against both Simcoe County and FC London.
Forward Aysia King was named the Marks Work Warehouse Hardest Working Player of the Match.
“She is a fantastic player; she is one of the top young players in this league and she has shown that in her performances all season. She has done jobs for us out of position and now she is in her natural position and showing that she is a threat.”
ECFC Women head to Burlington for their next match on Wednesday night when they face Burlington SC (0-11-0) in an 8 p.m. kickoff.