The Thunder Women’s soccer team kicked off against the Durham Lords on Sept. 15, resulting in a tie with no goals from either team.
The intensity of the game was augmented by the heat, a sweltering 30 C with a humidex of 32, which affected both teams heavily.
“The weather played a huge factor for both teams. It slowed the game down,” said Thunder Coach Basil Phillips. “We’re battling a few injuries so that affected our performance as well. Overall it was a good battle. Two tough teams playing tough, so it was good.”
The Thunder played a very strong defense which contributed heavily to the tie, as the Lords played a very heavy offensive.
“I think the weather had a big aspect in this game today,” said Thunder’s defensive midfielder, Courtney Gibbs. “It was really hot out, we kind of fell back a little bit with our fitness but the last 10 minutes, we pushed hard, we almost stole the game so hopefully next time we get them.”
Moving forward, fitness and execution is the name of the game according to coach Phillips.
“We have a little lack in the upper half of the field with just one player going against six so hopefully with the practice this week we can focus on moving up the field as a unit so we have the support coming back and hopefully just put one in the back of the net,” said Gibbs.
The team is currently holding second in the eastern division with two wins, zero losses and two ties.