Young Horns get some experience
MEN’S SOCCER TEAM GOES 0-2 ON SEASON-OPENING ROAD TRIP
It was an 0-2 season-opening weekend that will double as a learning tool for the University of Lethbridge Pronghorns men’s soccer team.
The Horns were blanked 3-0 by the Calgary Dinos during Canada West play Sunday afternoon in Calgary, capping off an 0-2 jaunt to Calgary after a 3-0 loss to the Mount Royal University Cougars Saturday afternoon.
Still, with an abundance of rookies on this year’s roster, Pronghorns head coach Randy Bardock chalked the road trip up as a valuable experience going forward.
“It was a big eye-opener for our 12 firstyears on what’s needed to play at this level,” he said.
On Sunday, the Dinos scored twice in the first half and once more in the second on their way to the win after losing 4-2 to the Saskatchewan Huskies Saturday.
“Silly mistakes cost us in the first half,” said Bardock. “We played with a lot more intensity in the second half, (it was) a lot more positive things.”
Horns goaltender Nolan French made 10 saves Sunday after turning aside seven shots Saturday against the Cougars.
Pronghorns rookie Alasdair Coyle had both Lethbridge shots and was credited with three shot attempts.
The men’s team stages their home opener this weekend, starting with the MacEwan Griffins Saturday at noon at the University of Lethbridge Stadium.
The Alberta Golden Bears come to town Sunday at 2:15 p.m.
“Everyone is in agreement we have some work to do and they’re very eager to get to it,” said Bardock. “It was a tough weekend physically, but think there are definitely some positives to take from it. We’re looking forward to being at home next week.”
On the women’s side, the Pronghorns went 2-1 at their weekend tournament, finishing the weekend with a 1-0 win over Carroll College from Montana.
Nicole Stahl had the Pronghorns goal, while Chelsey Galbraith registered the shutout.
The Pronghorns women open their Canada West season Sept. 8 when they host the Cougars at noon and Sept. 9 against the Pandas, also at noon.
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