The number one nationally ranked York University Lions men's soccer team took down the Wilfrid Laurier University Golden Hawks by a score of 3-1 in its home opener at Alumni Field on Saturday, Sept. 3.
Men's soccer Lions during home opener game action on Saturday, Sept. 3
With the win, the Lions remain undefeated on the season at 3-0-0 while the Golden Hawks are still looking for their first win at 0-2-1.
The Lions opened the scoring in the 24th minute on a goal by Cristian Cavallini, the first of his career. Maurizio Ragone was credited with the assist.
In the 40th minute the Golden Hawks tied it on a tally by Gurjinder Garcha, but just before the end of the half the Lions took the lead again when fifth-year midfielder Dena Iezady scored his first of the season in the 44th minute with an assist to Jonathan Lao.
The Lions added to their lead in the 85th minute when rookie Steve Kloutsouniotis netted the first of his career for the final goal of the game.
Next up for the Lions is a road game against the rival McMaster Marauders in Hamilton, Ont., at Ron Joyce Stadium on Wednesday, Sept. 7 at 8:15pm.
Women's soccer Lions top the Golden Hawks
As well, the number five nationally ranked York University Lions women's soccer team earned a 2-0 victory over the No. 9 Wilfrid Laurier University Golden Hawks in its home opener on Saturday, Sept. 3 at Alumni Field.
Women's soccer Lions in game action during their home opener on Saturday
Prior to last year, the Lions had not defeated the Golden Hawks since 2009 but they are now riding a three-game winning streak over their division rivals. The Lions are still undefeated on the year at 3-0-0 while the Golden Hawks fell to 0-1-2 with the loss.
Third-year forward Christina Morelli opened the scoring in the 18th minute, finding the back of the net after a beautiful cross into the box from rookie forward Sia Papadopoulos.
Nour Ghoneim, the reigning Canadian Interuniversity Sport player of the year, had two early chances that she couldn't convert but finally capitalized in the 64th minute, finishing off a great pass from Dina Ricco for a 2-0 lead.
That was all the Lions would need, as goalkeeper Taylor Grant stood tall and made five saves for the clean sheet.
Laurier goalkeeper Ashley Almeida faced 10 shots on goal and made eight saves.
The Lions will be back in action on Wednesday, Sept. 7 when they travel to Hamilton, Ont., to face the McMaster University Marauders at Ron Joyce Stadium. Kick-off is set for 6pm.