MSOC | Kodiaks leapfrog Rattlers with 2-1 Win
Sept 30, 2017 – Seeking redemption after a heartbreaking last minute loss to the Rattlers two weeks ago, the Kodiaks men's soccer team delivered their most impressive team performance of the season on Saturday. Goals from Brayden Jetten and Peter Ntignee were the difference as the Kodiaks prevailed over their bitter rival 2-1.
The first half of the game proved to be a battle of the goalkeepers as both teams took turns laying on offensive pressure. Lethbridge's Jimmy Bukuru had the first close call of the game just minutes in, as he launched a shot that just missed the outside of the net. Rattlers keeper Joao Vitor Duz Batista was forced to be sharp in the first half, making four saves.
Lethbridge finally got on the board first courtesy of last week's Kodiaks Athlete of the Week, Brayden Jetten. Burying his second of the season, Jetten delivered the Kodiaks a 1-0 lead at the 29' mark. The Rattlers retaliated with prolonged periods of pressure following the goal, but the Kodiaks defense proved strong and held them off for the remainder of the first half.
The intensity picked up in the second half and Medicine Hat was able to find the equalizer at the 52' mark. Ethan Hudec placed a strategic shot off a Kodiaks player and past keeper Kohl Wandyka to tie the game at one.
Not looking to settle for a tie, the Kodiaks refocused and were able to regain the lead in the 67th minute after a nice individual effort from Peter Ntignee. With a dash of trademark speed, Ntignee put the Kodiaks back in front with his third goal of the season, assisted by Keaton Craig.
The Kodiaks nearly extended their lead in the 83rd minute as Sodiq Adekunle put one past the Rattlers keeper, but the goal was called off due to offside. Despite this, the Kodiaks played well defensively in the final ten minutes and held on for a 2-1 win.
With the victory, the Kodiaks (3-1-2) leapfrog Medicine Hat (3-2-1) in the ACAC south division standings, and have put themselves in control of their own destiny for a playoff position with just four games remaining. Both teams will travel north on Oct. 14 when they return from the ACAC Thanksgiving break. The Kodiaks visit Lakeland while the Rattlers will travel to Red Deer.
Players of the Game:
Kodiaks - #3 Joel Arrieus
Rattlers - #10 Jared Ursulan