Reported by Shannon Lynch
Despite losing four key players this season due to injury, the Langara Falcons women’s soccer team currently sits at third place in the PacWest division standings.
One of the players who had to cut her season short was goalkeeper Melina Gomez, who fractured her elbow at the end of preseason. The absence of Gomez made for a shaky start for the Falcons, who lost their first game 2-1 to the Douglas Royals.
However, defencewoman Katie Inkster stepped in as goalie and head coach Ryan Birt said she is solid.
“She’s done very, very, well,” he said.
Injuries reach to other players
The three other key players that have had to step out due to injury are Tessa Tasaka, Aleisha Seggie and Tejvir Malhi.
The Falcons are fighting through the setback and proving it on the field. They beat the Capilano Blues 3-0 in Saturday’s game, followed by a 2-1 victory on Sunday over the Quest Kermodes.
Coach Birt says the team’s strength lies in the balance between keeping possession of the ball for long stretches and attacking, which he said could be seen in Saturday’s game.
Recently named PacWest athlete of the week, Natalie Long said their toughest defence and personal bond also strengthens the Falcons.
“We have a very good defensive line,” said Long. “And also we’re a very close team so that definitely reflects on the field.”
Improvement always in the cards
However, there is room for improvement and coach Birt said that comes down to having more patience.
“Developing that patience is definitely one of the biggest areas that we need to focus on,” he said. “Being patient in our build up and not being so quick to look forward all the time.”
Heading towards the provincial championships, Birt is optimistic about the Falcons once the health returns to the team.
“You take four key members out of any team in this league, they’re gonna struggle at times. And for our girls I think we’ve done very, very well to battle through that… My feeling is if we get healthy and we get everybody back, I think we’re as good, if not better, than anybody in the league.”
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