May 8, 2011
Canada moved one step closer to securing the top of Pool B with a hard fought 1-0 win over Chile in the second day of the Champions Challenge II in Vienna. Prior to the match, Abigail Raye was recognized as today she will receive her 50th international cap. Abi was presented flowers from coach Louis Mendonca, who also was earning his 50th "cap" as coach of the women’s national team.
Buoyed on by the continCanadian fans, Canada played smart, structured hockey during the first half. Play was very equal during this time, with Canada earning a PC at 14‘, resulting in a shot on goal well stopped by the Chilean goalkeeper. Chile responded with pressure later in the half, earning Penalty Corners at 27‘ and 33‘. Steph Jameson cleared the former after the initial shot was blocked in front of the goal, with Azelia Liu making a fine stop on the second corner.
Canada began the second half with strong pressure, resulting in a fine reverse stick goal by Kate Gillis at 38’ due to hard work and a great cross from the right side by Krissy Wishart. Chile responded immediately, earning a Penalty Corner at 40’, resulting in a shot well over the goal. A minute later, goalkeeper Liu made a fine save after a strong, Chilean run.
Although play continued generally equal, Chile earned three Penalty Corners (50’ and two at 55’). On the third PC, with the goalkeeper out of position, defenders Di Roemer and Steph Jameson cleared the ball off the line after a Chilean player had missed a chance at the open goal. Chile had one last gasp with a long corner at 63’, but Canada defended well and ran out the clock with the ball in their opponents’ end of the field.
Canada now has a Rest Day tomorrow, playing Italy on Tuesday with the knowledge that a win will put them first in Pool B.
Starting line-up: Azelia Liu, Steph Jameson, Sam Smith, Abi Raye, Di Roemer, Katie Baker, Tyla Flexman, Krissy Wishart, Kate Gillis, Jess Walkey, Thea Culley.
Substitutes: Dani Hennig, Hannah Haughn, Marian Dickinson, Katie Collison, Cailie O’Hara
DNP: Kaitlyn Williams, Sara McManus.
