Guelph United misses first chance to clinch playoffs
After a hard fought, back and forth game against Woodbridge Strikers at the Centennial Bowl yesterday afternoon, Guelph United could only manage a 2-2 draw that sees our team have to wait another week to clinch the League1 Ontario playoffs.
On Sunday at 5.30 PM, we will host ProStars FC in the deciding match.
Before yesterday’s match, our team knew a win clinches the playoff spot, but also that 2 wins in these remaining 2 games might end up with us hosting the first round of the playoffs - a possibility which was confirmed by half time, with Blue Devils losing the derby against Vaughan Azzurri.
After a scoreless first half that saw both teams create plenty of chances, Guelph came out strong in the second, and opened the scoring after a deflected free kick from Colin Gander. Woodbridge fought back however. In the 74th minute they equalized through Luca Pinto, and 10 minutes later Justin Cicchilo brought our guests the lead. Guelph managed to equalize in injury time after a goal from Amardo Oakley, but there was no time left to get the all-important win.
Next Sunday’s decider against ProStars FC will be the last home match of 2023
The draw sees us fall back to 6th place, but we’re still in control of our playoff fate. Next Sunday, we’re hosting ProStars FC, a team out of playoff contention. A win guarantees our spot in the playoffs. Before the start of the game, we will know if even a draw could be enough, if, the day before, Electric City will drop points against Windsor.
Unfortunately, yesterday’s draw guarantees we cannot finish higher than 5th, which means we will not be hosting any playoff games. Next Sunday’s regular season finale will also serve as the last home match for 2023. We hope to see you at the Bowl for the most important match of our regular season. You can get your tickets in the shop.