Last updated September 20, 2004

Pioneers Start New Season in Convincing Fashion

The Richmond Pioneers got their third season of Over 50's soccer off to a fine start with a comfortable 5-0 victory over BC Transit. Although on paper this looked to be a marquee match-up against a team that went unbeaten throughout the last winter season, this new look BC Transit team is rebuilding after losing some key players.

The Pioneers enjoyed most of the early play, and the opening goal was a glorious 35 yard strike from Denis Harvington over the stranded Transit goalkeeper. Harvington turned provider on the second goal, setting up Eugene Kishmere for the Rocket's opening goal of the campaign.

The Pioneers had numerous chances to increase their lead, but went into the half time break just 2-0 up.

In the second half, BC Transit fought hard to get back into the game, but the Pioneers back line was never seriously troubled, and goalie Dave Valitis had a quiet game with only the occasional long range shot to deal with.

The Pioneers struggled to get the third goal that would provide a margin of safety, despite numerous chances. The goal that sealed the victory came midway through the half, when Harvington set up Graham Mason, who made no mistake with a firmly struck shot inside the far post.
Within a couple of minutes it was 4-0, with Harvington again the provider, this time setting up Ken Johnston for a tap in from close range.

As the clock wound down, the Pioneers were awarded a penalty kick on a hand ball. Everyone expected Ken Kan to seize the opportunity to be the penalty taker, but as that would have meant the stay-at-home defender would need to cross the half way line, the duty fell to Johnston, who converted the spot kick to seal a 5-0 victory for the Pioneers.

The victory extended the Pioneers record of never losing a game at home - an impressive run of 27 games.

Man of the match: Denis Harvington.

Next Week: Away to Delta United. Car poolers to meet at the Pioneer Pub at 9:00am

2004/5 Soccer Schedule Released

The release of the tentative schedule for the Over 50's Soccer saw a realignment of teams, with the Pioneers placed in the South Division. Although regretably, the Pioneers will no longer do battle with Aldergrove, they will avoid having to travel to Langley and Mission, much to the great relief of a certain flu-prone team member who shall remain nameless (last name starts with Fitz).

The marquee match-ups to look forward to in the first half of the season include the opener against BC Transit, the visit of Richmond Olympics on Oct 3rd, and a trip to Surrey Classics on November 28th.

Click to see the full schedule.

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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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