Pioneers Victorious in Local Richmond Derby

Carib Islanders 1 Richmond Pioneers 2. In an eagerly anticipated matchup, the Richmond Pioneers defeated the Carib Islanders 2-1 in a keenly contested local derby game on a soggy Burnett School field.

There was no doubting the fact the Islanders were serious about this game, with their squad strengthened for the occasion. Any illusion that this was going to be easy for the Pioneers was quickly dispelled when the Islanders took an early lead. Pioneer stand-in goalkeeper Lorne Baumel let a relatively harmless shot squirm through the 'five-hole', in what was to be the only blemish on an otherwise terrific performance.

The game had a definite edge to it, with a number of ill-tempered exchanges taking place, with the fiesty Jim Fitzgerald a thorn in the Islanders' side. The Pioneers were showing more fight than they have shown in their last couple of games, and were rewarded with a fine equaliser midway through the first half. Right back Ken Kan's long pass released Ben Fung, whose pinpoint cross found a rushing Eugene Kishmere, who unleashed an unstoppable first time shot from close range.

Kishmere's long-awaited return from injury added a new dimension to the Pioneer attack. Before the intermission, Kishmere would add a second Pioneer goal, a simple tap-in after the Islander keeper failed to hold a Kan cross.

The second half saw the Islanders put some pressure on the Pioneer backline, but Baumel was solid, along with sweeper David Chan. The Pioneers would have numerous chances to extend their lead and ease the tension, yet their finishing was woeful, and the Islander keeper redeemed himself with a couple of quality saves. At the other end of the field, Baumel turned one goalbound effort round the post.

The outcome was in doubt right up to the final whistle. But in the end, the Pioneers came out victorious to claim the 'Richmond Cup'. Kudos to the Islanders for making it a great contest.

Next game. Up next is a road trip to Loutet Park in North Vancouver to play Park Royal Physio.

- Based in Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, the Pioneers play in the Over 50 Division of the BCOTS (BC Old Timers Soccer league). The division has 40 teams from all over the Lower Mainland region.