A dedicated group of ladies did Gibsons proud on the May long weekend as the Gibsons Pigs soccer team won its division at a tournament in Kelowna.
Saturday afternoon Gibsons started tentatively against Dunbar Thunder but settled down and won 2-0 on goals by Andrea Aleong.
Later that evening, Gibsons suffered a heart-breaker, losing 1-0 in a game they totally dominated against the Semiahmoo Sharks. Great chances were missed with frustrating regularity before the Sharks stole one on a well-taken breakaway. The mood was a bit sombre and "da coach" wondered how they would respond.
Sunday morning, bright and early, the question was answered with a super effort against the favoured locals, Kelowna United.
Solid team defence stymied speedy strikers and well-constructed offensive pressure resulted in a goal by one of the "tiny giants," Tammie York.
The afternoon turned cool and blustery for the game against the Coquitlam Stingers. The team contended well against the stiff wind and stayed calm after conceding the first goal. They equalized through Ginny Blattler after the keeper bobbled a great shot by Aleong. The wind increased at halftime and Gibsons camped out in the attacking half. A goal was conceded, but goals by Jen Peers, Blattler and Aleong made it 4-2 and a date in Monday's final.
The final against North Vancouver Silver Streaks was a nail-biting affair against a very physical team, allowed too much freedom by the officials.
Short of subs due to the loss of two key players, the survivors gave a great display, often filling unfamiliar roles. Late into the game, Gibsons finally got a break with a penalty coolly slipped in by Ellen Thomas, and any nerves were settled by a second goal by Rinette Lagace, set up by Blattler.
Icing on the cake came with a fabulous tip-over by Reagan Covey off a great desperation shot that looked to be a sure goal.
Individual mentions are invidious in a great team effort, but Thomas at centre back was commanding throughout, organizing the defence.
The human dynamo, Blattler, inspired all about her and had her best game ever in the 4-2 win. Youngster Reagan, well-protected by her defence, came up with inspiring stops when called upon as well as clearing well when used by her defenders.
Well done, all. Special thanks to young guests Carla Paetkau and Andrea Aleong who filled in admirably.
