The Brock Badgers are headed to the playoffs for the second-straight year after a 2-2 draw with the Lions on Sunday (Oct. 22) afternoon.
"I am proud of the group for extending our season two years in a row," said head coach Carli Tingstad. "It wasn't always easy this year, but I am really proud of how the group has come together to push through one game at a time."
Brock came out of the gate with a strong start, firing numerous shots on York goalkeeper Charlotte Phillips within the first ten minutes.
Makenna Williamson scored her second of the season in the 25th minute to break the tie. The Hamilton product took advantage of a turnover generated by a free kick from Brianna Bishop.
The Badgers added their second of the game in the 32nd minute as Jenna Parris fired in a cross that found the right corner of the net. At halftime, the Badgers carried a 2-0 lead.
York did not go away quietly, putting their first of the game off the foot of Maia Torelli just four minutes into the second half.
Senior goalkeeper Emma Hendrie made a remarkable save late in the second half to preserve the lead.
A few minutes later, Torelli added a second goal to even things up.
Things got frantic in the final moment as York was trying to find the go-ahead goal. The Lions needed a win over the Badgers to qualify for the playoffs. A late free kick from Bishop was denied and the Lions were unable to generate another chance after that.
Striker Sabrina Bisante helped drive the offence with three shots on goal.
Hendrie made five saves in the draw and was a key reason for the draw along with the Brock defence that stood tall despite the consistent York pressure.
The Badgers qualify for the playoffs as the No. 6 seed in the West Division as a result of the 2-2 draw.
Up next, the Badgers will travel to Guelph to take on the Gryphons in the first round of the OUA playoffs on Wednesday, October 25. Check back on gobadgers.ca for a time when it becomes available.
For all your Brock Badgers updates make sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
