November 30, 2003

Pioneers Make Hard Work of Victory

Langley Aces 2 Richmond Pioneers 3

Playing on a slick, frost-covered field, the Richmond Pioneers maintained their 100 per cent road record with a narrow 3-2 victory over Langley Aces.

Despite missing four key players through injury or absenteeism, the Pioneers came out strong and cohesive, and scored after just 6 minutes with their first shot on goal. Receiving a pass from Stan Bogdanovich, Ken Johnston turned his marker and placed his shot beyond the reach of the Aces keeper.

Ten minutes later, Johnston struck again with another clinical finish, and when the Pioneers added a third on 30 minutes from a nice left footed volley from Gary Byrne, the game looked like becoming a romp for the rampaging visitors.

However, the Pioneers not only missed numerous chances to put the game beyond doubt, but just before the half time break, hesitation in the Pioneers defence allowed Langley to sneak in and pull a goal back to make it 3-1.

In the second half, the Pioneers became increasingly frustrated with their inability to recapture the control and finish they enjoyed in the first half an hour, and Langley started to press more. Some abysmal Pioneer marking led to a second Langley goal when an Aces forward was left all alone in front of goal, his shot leaving Dave Valitis with no chance.

The Pioneers now had to endure a nervous closing period as their once comfortable lead was now hanging tenuously by a thread. Chances were still being created by the Pioneers, but the finishing touch continued to elude them.

The final whistle blew and, although victorious, the Pioneers were left to rue their lack of killer instinct.

The Pioneers are now five for five on the road this season, and the unbeaten streak is now at 18 games.

Man of the Match: Ken Johnston
Next week: Home to Surrey Vikings

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

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