The Cowichan 49ers bowed out of the provincial Men’s Masters A soccer championships with a narrow loss to Port Moody Rangers in Port Moody last Saturday.
The teams went back and forth for the bulk of the game until Port Moody scored off a cross and a scramble in the 65th minute. Cowichan continued to press for the tie, and as they favoured offence or defence, Port Moody countered and added a second goal in injury time.
“We went over with a big team; we had a good solid showing and the right formation,” cowichan manager and striker Neall Rowlings said. “They were very good, as were we. Lots of chances both ways, keepers did well.”
Rowlings was impressed with Port Moody, who won the Mainland masters cup, as Cowichan did on the Island.
“I would bet they win the [provincial] tournament,” he said. “The defensive line did amazing; honestly everyone did. We just needed to believe in ourselves a little more and create a little more luck for ourselves.
“We are disappointed but already planning our return in August. Now we will rally behind The O30 women this week! The Valley is due for a provincial championship and I think they are the team to get it.”