The York University Lions men’s soccer team began the 2010 season with a bang in their home opener on Sunday, Sept. 5, with a 7-0 victory over the University of Ontario Institute of Technology Ridgebacks at York Stadium.
Third-year striker Adrian Pena who finished second in team scoring last season with six goals, gave the Lions all the offence they would need with a goal five minutes into the game and another in the 22nd minute.
Right: York’s Francesco Catalano faces a UOIT defender
Also recording a two-goal game was Moreno Alberti. Rounding out the scoring with one goal each were Martino Belligero, Francesco Catalano and rookie Alon Badat.
Goalkeeper Sotiri Varlokostas had an easy afternoon for the win, saving all three shots he faced.
Also in action this weekend was the Lions’ football team, which began its 2010 season with a home contest against the Guelph Gryphons on Monday and fell by a score of 26-2.
The Lions (0-1) earned the two points on a safety conceded by Guelph (2-0) in the first quarter.
York’s defence was strong in the first regular season game for the squad. Third-year cornerback Andre Clarke was all over the field, recording 9.5 tackles, one interception and two pass break-ups. Zack Davis was also impressive in his debut with the Lions, recording six tackles, including two for losses, and one sack.
The Lions’ offence was largely about the passing game. Third-year quarterback Nick Coutu threw the ball 37 times, completing 14 passes for 133 yards with two interceptions. He also scrambled for another 53 yards on nine carries. The rushing attack was led by Jacob Appiah who had 54 yards on just four carries.
The football team will be at home again next weekend for a game against the Ottawa Gee-Gees on Saturday at 1pm, while the soccer teams will travel to London for a road game against the Western Mustangs on Sept. 8.
Submitted by Alyson Fisher, sport & recreation information officer for Sport York.