Richmond Pioneers 2 Stingers 2. Missing two thirds of its potent strike force due to injuries to Eugene and Ben, the Pioneers relinquished the lead twice and in the end had to settle for a 2-2 tie against a solid Stingers team. Unbeaten on home soil this season, the Pioneers took an early lead when John latched onto a pass from Graham to place a left footed shot past the hapless Stinger keeper. The one goal advantage lasted until early in the second half, when the Stingers equalized on a fast break with a shot that went in off the post.

However, the game should have been sealed when a great through-ball from Stan picked up Graham's deep run, who got behind the defense and placed a nice shot past the Stinger goalkeeper. Late in the game, Stingers equalized on a great, dipping shot from outside the box from Bernie Flint, who almost repeated the feat minutes later, only to be denied by a great save from Dave. Both teams had chances to win it in the dying moments of the game.

Next game. Another home game at McMath, this time against Team Chile. Call John Tsang if you can't make the game. After this weekend, it's two long road trips.

Christmas Dinner. The Pioneers annual team Christmas Dinner is to be held on Saturday Dec 21st at the Richmond Inn, at 7:00pm.

Viva Las Vegas. Mike is taking a team to a Las Vegas over 48 tournament on Jan 18 to Jan 20, 2003. Contact Mike or John Tsang if you are interested.

Here's the Pioneers team photo taken before the third place game against Cliff Avenue in the Penticton Tournament.