The Lady Royals (0-2-1) opened up their 2012 season at home last night with a 4-0 loss to the overpowering Fanshawe Falcons (2-1-0). The Falcons came in an spoiled the first home game for the Royals in front of a strong Redeemer crowd.

The match started close with both teams sharing the majority of the possession early on. No one team seemed to be able to capitalize. Then in the 35th minute, Fanshawe opened up the scoring and took the lead 1-0 on a goal from Marisa Oliveira. Redeemer responded well however and continued to keep the Falcons from any quality scoring chances keeping the score 1-0 heading into halftime.

Again, the Royals were able to start well in the second half and neither team really seemed to be able to grab the momentum. The Royals continued to play strong defensively but struggled to find any offense. However, two quick goals by Fanshawe in the 56th (Amanda Dafoe) and the 60th (Katie Parker) on a header and a free kick pulled the game away from Redeemer. Fanshawe would add another (Bailey Maxwell) in the final minute of play for the 4-0 win. Cheriss Marson had the shutout for Fanshawe.

The Lady Royals now run their record to 0-2-1 three games into the season. The Conestoga Condors and Mohawk Mountaineers head to Redeemer on Friday and Saturday in games that will have huge playoff implications for the Royals. Without a win thus far, the Royals will likely need to pick up points in both matches. Conestoga comes in on Friday with the same record as the Lady Royals at 0-2-1. Game time is at 4 p.m. Then on Saturday, the Royals host their cross-town rivals Mohawk (1-1-0) in another pivotal match. Game time is at 2 p.m.

Source: Redeemer University College