Nine-game undefeated streak

The Gee-Gee's women's' soccer team had to endure frigid and strong winds that blew through Matt Anthony Field during the games they played Oct. 16–17. With a 3-0 win against the Nipissing Lakers (4-6-4), and then a 0-0 draw against the Laurentian Lady Vees (5-4-5) the following day, the team looked impressive as it headed toward the playoffs, with a record of 10-1-3. The game against the Lakers proved to be entertaining. Both teams had a quiet first half, with the score being 0-0 going into halftime. It was in the 69th minute that third-year Gee-Gees midfielder Tara Condos opened up the scoring after a beautiful setup by fifth-year veteran Élise Desjardins. The Gee-Gees didn’t stop there—rookie striker Elisabeth Wong and third-year defender Gillian Baggott each added a goal. The three goals were scored within an eight-minute span; clearly, the Gees’ offence had the ability to pull through when it mattered most. “Terrible first half, terrific second half,” said Ottawa head coach Steve Johnson about the victory. “When we can create good opportunities for ourselves, we can be extremely dangerous.” The Gee-Gees had a lot to prove to themselves and to the rest of the Ontario University Athletics (OUA) as they faced off against Laurentian on Oct. 17; the Lady Vees were the only team to defeat Ottawa this season. The Gee-Gees dominated ball possession throughout the first half, but were unable to score. After the break, the game was played more evenly as Laurentian started to attack with more liveliness, but in the end the two teams settled for a scoreless draw. “We had a number of corners and set pieces today that we just couldn’t capitalize on, and that hurt us,” said Johnson. Despite not scoring a goal, Wong was able to generate plenty of chances on offence. Wong’s incredible speed was on full display against the Lady Vees, as she was able to outrun defenders to the ball on multiple occasions. Even though the Gees were not able to put the ball into the back of the net, the stellar play of their young striker is something the team can definitely build on. “She’s a very good player,” Baggott said of Wong. “With her speed—if she works on her touch a bit—she could become an amazing [striker].” With only two games left in the regular season, Baggott is confident of her team’s chances in the OUA post-season. “We’re really excited for the playoffs. Last year, we didn’t make it to nationals, but this year, we are a [hungry] young team, and everybody can’t wait to play. We should do really well in the playoffs and make it back to competing at the national competition.” The Gee-Gees have two road games remaining in their season: a match at Carleton (6-3-4) Oct. 20, then a match at Toronto (7-4-3) Oct. 24.