Rustlers head South

The Lakeland Rustlers Men's Soccer team traveled to Southern Alberta on the weekend to take on the SAIT Trojans and Olds College Broncos.

Saturday, the Rustlers took on the SAIT Trojans in Calgary.  The Trojans opened the scoring in the 15th minute, taking a 1-0 lead.  The Rustlers kept the Trojans lead to 1 for the remainder of the first half before the Trojans doubled the lead early in the second half.  The Trojans would add a third goal, as the Rustlers would drop the match 3-0. 

The game featured intense, physical play on both sides, with both teams managing five shots on goal.  Unfortunately, the Rustlers were not able to find the back of the net on any of their shots.  Player of the Game for the Rustlers was 1st-year centreback, #33 Chase Cal.

The Rustlers took on the Broncos Sunday in Olds as they looked for their first goal and first win of the season.  The two teams played each other even for the first half, until the Broncos managed a goal in added time, taking a 1-0 lead into the half. 

The Rustlers had their chances to score, including a free kick from 1st-year midfielder, #25 Keilan Hozempa, early in the second half.  The Broncos solidified the victory in the final minutes, adding a goal to take the 2-0 win.  The Rustlers had their share of opportunities to score, having 12 shots on goal compared to the Broncos 10.  Hozempa was named Player of the Game for the Rustlers. 

Rustlers Head Coach Kevin Wagner spoke about the trip, following the weekend.  "Our back line and goalkeeper played well," Wagner said, "and we had chances to score, we just aren't finishing.  We didn't have many preseason games, so we are still trying to find our stride.  Once we find our stride and start scoring, we will be right in the mix."

The Rustlers return home next weekend as they take on the Lethbridge Kodiaks (1-1-1) and Medicine Hat Rattlers (2-1-1).  Kick-off is at 2 PM at VLA field.